Hala Taxis, a partnership between Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Careem, has introduced a new way to book rides through WhatsApp, making the service even more accessible. This feature is designed to simplify the booking process, leveraging WhatsApp’s widespread use among both residents and tourists.
WhatsApp Integration for Easier Access
Adding WhatsApp as a booking platform aligns with Hala’s strategy to adopt digital solutions that enhance customer experience. This move offers a more streamlined approach, catering to those who might not be familiar with the Careem app.
How to Book a Hala Taxi via WhatsApp
Booking a Hala Taxi through WhatsApp is simple. Users just need to save the dedicated WhatsApp number, 800-HALATAXI (+971-4252-8294), and send a "Hi" message to start. They are then guided through prompts to complete the booking, maintaining the same pricing and service as with the Careem app.
Flexible Payment Options
Hala provides a range of payment options including cash, credit or debit cards, and Apple Pay. While Hala credits and promotional discounts are not available for WhatsApp bookings, they remain accessible through the Careem app.
No Extra Fees for WhatsApp Bookings
There are no additional fees for booking via WhatsApp, and fare calculations remain consistent across platforms. After each ride, receipts are sent directly to the WhatsApp chat for transparency.
Cancellation Policy
Customers can cancel their booking without a fee within five minutes. However, a charge of Dhs12 applies if the cancellation occurs after this period or if the driver has already started the journey.
For specialized services like Hala Max (six-seater) or Hala Kids (with child seats), and features like ride scheduling or discounts, users will still need to use the Careem app.
This new feature reflects Hala’s ongoing commitment to improving convenience and accessibility for its users.
News Source: Gulf Business
