Dubai's taxi sector experienced substantial growth in the first half of 2024, with a notable increase of 500,000 trips compared to the same period last year.
The total number of journeys reached 55.7 million, up from 55.3 million in 2023. This growth was accompanied by an increase in passenger numbers, rising from 96.2 million to 96.9 million. The sector also saw a significant boost in workforce and vehicle numbers, with the number of drivers expanding from 26,000 to 30,000, and the fleet growing by 644 vehicles to a total of 12,778.
Adel Shakri, Director of Planning and Business Development at the Roads and Transport Authority's (RTA) Public Transport Agency, attributed this growth to the consistently rising demand for transportation services in Dubai. He emphasised that the increase in trips, drivers, and vehicles is a direct response to customer needs.
The sector's expansion was notably driven by the success of the e-hail service, Hala Taxi, which accounted for 40% of all taxi journeys during the first half of 2024—a 5% increase from the previous year. Additionally, 76% of Hala Taxi journeys achieved an average vehicle arrival time of less than 3.5 minutes, up from 73% in the same period last year. This improvement highlights the sector's enhanced efficiency and responsiveness.
Shakri emphasised the RTA's commitment to advancing digital infrastructure and providing innovative services, which have significantly contributed to the sector's positive performance. He noted that these developments align with Dubai's broader economic and digital growth, reinforcing the emirate's status as a global hub for investment and tourism.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
