RTA Intensifies Crackdown on Unlicensed Passenger Transport in Dubai

Maryam Pervez -

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has recently executed a series of rigorous inspections targeting unlicensed passenger transport operations and related promotional activities throughout the emirate. These efforts, conducted in partnership with the Dubai Police General Headquarters, Airport Security, and Emirates Parkings, have led to the issuance of multiple violations and the impounding of numerous vehicles engaged in illegal activities.

Coordinated Enforcement Actions

The RTA's proactive measures aim to uphold Dubai's reputation as a world-class destination offering safe and reliable mobility services. Saeed Al Balooshi, Director of Passenger Transport Activities Monitoring at RTA's Public Transport Agency, emphasized the significance of these operations. "In coordination with the Dubai Police General HQ, we conducted targeted inspections against unlicensed passenger transport across various parts of the emirate, particularly in hotspots known for such illegal activities," he stated.

Key Results of the Inspections

  • Impounding of Vehicles: The coordinated efforts resulted in the seizure of 86 vehicles involved in unlicensed passenger transport, often referred to as 'passenger smuggling.' These vehicles were impounded and towed to the Vehicles Impounding Yard at Lehbab by Emirates Parkings Company.
  • Hatta Operations: In collaboration with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs, inspections in the Hatta region led to the detection and violation of vehicles engaged in unlicensed transport activities, which were subsequently impounded.
  • Airport Security Campaigns: Field inspection teams worked alongside the General Department of Airport Security to monitor activities around Terminals 1, 2, and 3 of Dubai Airports. These campaigns identified 90 vehicles conducting unlicensed passenger transport, which were then impounded and taken to the Vehicles Impounding Yard at Lehbab.
  • Jebel Ali Area: The RTA also impounded 49 vehicles around the Jebel Ali area, with the same stringent measures of towing them to the impounding yard.

Continuous Monitoring and Enforcement

The RTA's Passenger Transport Activities Monitoring Department regularly conducts inspections throughout the year to detect and curb illegal passenger transport activities. This ongoing vigilance is essential in maintaining the integrity of Dubai’s transport services and safeguarding its standing as a premium tourist and service hub.

"Our continuous monitoring and enforcement efforts are crucial in deterring illegal passenger transport operations that can jeopardize the safety and security of residents, visitors, and tourists,"

added Al Balooshi.

"These actions help reinforce Dubai's commitment to providing world-class mobility services."

Future Initiatives

The RTA remains dedicated to its mission of ensuring the highest standards of transport services in Dubai. Moving forward, the authority plans to intensify its inspections and expand its collaboration with other governmental bodies to further enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of its enforcement actions against unlicensed passenger transport.

For more information about the RTA’s initiatives and updates on transport regulations, please visit the official RTA website or follow their social media channels.