One of the best ways to get around Dubai is by using the taxis operated by the Roads and Transportation Authority (RTA). Whether you are a local or a visitor, knowing the RTA Dubai taxi fare helps you better plan your transportation costs. Let’s explore the details of the current fare structure, surcharges and useful tips to make your taxi experience smoother.
- Understanding the RTA Dubai Taxi Fare Structure
- Types of RTA Dubai Taxis and Their Fares
- Peak and Off-Peak Hours
- FAQs
Understanding the RTA Dubai Taxi Fare Structure
The fare system used by RTA Dubai for its taxi service is simple to understand. It includes a base fare, a per-kilometre rate, and some surcharges. These surcharges vary depending on the time of day, location, and type of taxi service.
Here’s a breakdown of the key elements of the fare structure:
1. Base Fare
The base fare is the starting cost of your taxi journey. For regular taxis, it starts at AED 12. However, this may change depending on the time and type of taxi service.
For example, the airport taxi has a base fare of AED 25. The ladies’ taxi has an opening fare of AED 6 during the day and AED 7 after 10 PM.
2. Per Kilometre Rate
Once your trip starts, an additional per-kilometre rate of AED 2.19 is applied. This rate is consistent across regular RTA taxis. However, specialised services like limousines or Hala Taxis may have slightly different pricing models.
3. Minimum Fare
Regardless of the distance travelled, there is a minimum fare for all taxi rides. The minimum fare is AED 12, which you must pay.
Additional Charges
Apart from the base fare and per-kilometre rate, there are additional surcharges based on the nature of your trip, such as:
1. Salik (Toll) Charges
If your journey passes through one of Dubai’s toll gates (Salik), you will incur a Salik tariff of AED 4 per gate. These gates are common on major routes such as Sheikh Zayed Road.
2. Waiting Charges
In case your taxi ride includes waiting time, you will be charged for the minutes the ride has to wait. The waiting fare is AED 0.5 per minute for all types of vehicles.
Types of RTA Dubai Taxis and Their Fares
Here’s a comprehensive table to help you understand the fares for various types of taxis in Dubai.
| Taxi Type | Base Fare (Day) | Base Fare (Night) | Per KM Rate (Day) | Per KM Rate (Night) | Airport/Port Base Fare | Per KM Rate (Airport/Port) |
| Regular Taxi (Street Hail) | AED 5 | AED 5.5 | AED 2.14 | AED 2.14 | AED 25 | AED 2.14 |
| Regular Taxi (S’hail / Careem) | AED 12 | AED 12 | AED 2.14 | AED 2.14 | AED 25 | AED 2.14 |
| Limousine (Standard/XL/Electric) | AED 16 | AED 16 | AED 3.56 | AED 3.56 | AED 25 | AED 3.67 |
| Ameera Limousine (Women Only) | AED 11 | AED 12.5 | AED 3.10 | AED 3.10 | AED 25 | AED 3.67 |
| Airport Taxi | AED 25 | AED 25 | AED 2.14 | AED 2.14 | AED 25 | AED 2.14 |
| People of Determination Taxi | AED 8 | AED 8 | AED 2.14 | AED 2.14 | AED 25 | AED 2.14 |
| Ladies Taxi (Street Hail) | AED 5 | AED 5.5 | AED 2.21 | AED 2.21 | AED 25 | AED 2.21 |
| Ladies Taxi (S’hail App) | AED 12 | AED 12 | AED 2.09 | AED 2.09 | AED 25 | AED 2.21 |
1. Regular Taxi
The most common type of taxi, recognised by its red roof and commercial advertisements on the doors and back. You can easily hail regular Dubai taxis on the street or through apps like S’hail and Careem.
2. Limousine Service
A luxury chauffeur-driven vehicle, perfect for tourists, business professionals, and corporate clients. These are available 24/7, with exclusive pick-up locations at places like Dubai Mall and Atlantis.
3. Ameera Limousine (Women Only)
Dubai’s first female chauffeur service, designed for women seeking a luxury transportation experience. Available around the clock for ladies and offers special rates at peak times.
4. Airport Taxi
Exclusive for visitors arriving at Dubai International Airport, these taxis are convenient and can take you anywhere within the UAE.
5. People of Determination Taxi
Designed for passengers with special needs, these vehicles are spacious and fully equipped to provide comfort and convenience during travel.
6. Ladies Taxi
Exclusively driven by female drivers, the pink taxis in Dubai cater to women and families. They can be hailed via the S’hail app or found at key locations like malls and airports.
Peak and Off-Peak Hours
The fare for taxis in Dubai may vary depending on the time of day and whether it’s a peak hour. Here’s a breakdown of the hours that may affect your fare:
| Day | Daytime Hours | Peak Hours | Nighttime Hours |
| Monday to Thursday | 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM4:00 PM – 8:00 PM | 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM |
| Friday | 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM4:00 PM – 12:00 AM | 12:00 AM – 6:00 AM |
| Saturday and Sunday | 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM | 12:00 AM – 6:00 AM |
FAQs
The minimum fare for a regular taxi ride in Dubai is AED 12.
The cost of an RTA taxi in Dubai is typically lower than ride-sharing services by companies like Uber. It may also be determined by factors like the time of day and distance travelled.
Yes, most taxis in Dubai accept both cash and credit card payments. You can use your Nol card for taxi payments as well.
The Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC) regulates the taxi service in Dubai under the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
It is crucial to thoroughly understand the RTA Dubai taxi fare structure to avoid potential misunderstandings during your journey. By familiarising yourself with the base fares, additional charges, and other service fees, you can better plan your commute costs.
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