The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched a pilot taxi-sharing service aimed at making travel between Dubai and Abu Dhabi more affordable and convenient. The six-month program allows passengers to share taxi rides between Ibn Battuta Mall in Dubai and Al Wahda Mall in Abu Dhabi, potentially slashing fares by up to 75%.
The initiative, which started this Monday, enables passengers to pool their rides, dividing the costs depending on the number of passengers. If four people share a single cab, each rider will pay only AED 66 — a significant drop from the standard single-passenger fare. For groups of three, the cost per person rises slightly to AED 88, while two passengers sharing will pay AED 132 each. Payments can be made easily via bank cards or Nol cards.
According to Adel Shakri, Director of Planning and Business Development at the Public Transport Agency, the service offers substantial savings to frequent commuters between the two emirates, while also alleviating traffic congestion and reducing environmental impact. “This service not only cuts costs for passengers but also helps to limit carbon emissions by encouraging shared rides over individual travel,” Shakri stated.
Safety and comfort remain priorities for this program. RTA taxis participating in the initiative are equipped with safety features, including onboard cameras connected to the Operations Control Centre, ensuring constant monitoring for a secure travel experience. If successful, the trial could expand to other routes and locations across the UAE, supporting the country’s commitment to sustainable urban mobility.
