Page 183 - SALIK PR REPORT JANUARY 2024

Khaleej Times is breaking down the changes to keep the public informed.

The flag-down or flagfall rate (the initial charge incurred at the start of a taxi
journey), has gone up from Dh12 to Dh20 in some pick-up areas at certain times
during major events.

The taxi fare hike is not city-wide. According to Roads and Transport Autor, the
introduction of new flag down rates for both regular-metered taxis and Hala Taxi
service will be applicable only during major event days, exhibitions and
international conventions at locations including World Trade Centre, Expo City,
and Global Village.

This was implemented during last New Year’s Eve and only at certain locations
where there were fireworks displays, including Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al
Arab, Hatta, Al Seef, Bluewaters, The Beach, and Global Village.

If there are major events, exhibitions or international conventions at World Trade
Centre or Expo City, the flagfall rate – if you start your journey from those areas –
is Dh20. If there are no events, taxi fare will start at Dh12.

Same rates apply when you book a taxi from Global Village. Because it’s open for
the current season, flag-down rate is Dh20; then it reverts to Dh12 when it is
closed during summer months.

There is, however, no increase in the flag-down rate when you book a taxi
anywhere aside from the above-mentioned places. Meaning, flag-down rate for
passengers who will be picked up from Mall of the Emirates or Times Square,
Deira City Centre, or their place of work or residence, will still be Dh12.

It’s actually called 'dynamic pricing' – fare fluctuates based on demand. This
usually happens during rush hour when more people are on the road and there is
high demand for transportation. More passengers means more traffic and the

fare goes up to compensate for the time and petrol (or electricity for electric
vehicles) that will be used to transport people. The fare increase, however, is
temporary. Fares are cheaper during the day when there is less demand.

According to RTA, the introduction of new flag down rates for both regular-
metered taxis and Hala Taxi service is applicable during major event days,

https://www.msn.com/en-ae/news/featured/dubai-changes-in-taxi-fare-nol-card-top-ups-new-parking-
company-explained/ar-AA1mIPYp