Aside from cutting-edge skyscrapers and magnificent infrastructures, Dubai’s transportation is also one of the sought-after systems managed by Dubai Transport Company (DTC). The company provides comprehensive mobility of taxi services in Dubai, ensuring safe and comfortable transportation.
Moreover, it caters to diverse passengers’ needs. Whether people need luxury, business, or affordable rides, DTC offers a comprehensive range of services and different types of taxis for smooth hailing.
Understanding the different types of taxi services and their fares is essential to hailing a cab seamlessly. This blog will also cover how to book a ride in Dubai through DTC.
Key Highlights
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The main keyword taxi services in Dubai refers to the wide range of cab options operated by Dubai Taxi Company (DTC) under the umbrella of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
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From affordable “public” taxis (red roof) to premium limousine and accessible services, each type is clearly colour-coded for ease.
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Understanding the different types of taxi services in Dubai, their fare structures, and how to book them helps both residents and visitors hail a cab seamlessly.
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This blog explores the major types of taxis, fare comparisons, booking methods, and practical tips.
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What does that mean for you as a rider? You’ll know which service to pick, how much it costs, and how to book—ensuring a smooth ride in Dubai.
Understanding Taxi Services in Dubai
If you’re travelling around Dubai, knowing the taxi services in Dubai is a huge plus. Whether you’re a visitor or resident, you’ll appreciate the choice from the most affordable ride to premium chauffeur-driven options. The RTA oversees all licensed taxis, and the DTC is the primary operator. According to the official portal, you can hail taxis on the street or book in advance via apps.
Here we dive into each service type, how to distinguish them (roof colours help!), fares, and how to book.
#Public (Standard) Taxi
The standard public taxi services in Dubai are the most widely used. DTC operates these taxis and typically features a red roof (cream body with a red top), making them easily identifiable. They serve everyday journeys throughout the city and are used by both residents and visitors.
Fare Structure
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If you hail one on the street, the base fare begins at approximately AED 5 during the daytime.
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For app-bookings, the base starts around AED 12.
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Per kilometre charges: around AED 2.26 per km (varies slightly).
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Pick-ups from exclusive areas, such as airports, may attract a higher base fare (e.g., AED 25).
When to Use & Booking Tips
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Ideal for everyday commuting, shopping trips, or airport transfers if you’re looking for value.
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You can hail one on the street or use apps such as the DTC app or other ride-hailing services that integrate with RTA taxis.
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Make sure the meter is visible and shows the correct initial fare.
#Airport Taxi
Fare Structure
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From the airport, the base fare typically starts at AED 25.
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Per km rate similar to standard taxis (approx. AED 2.14–2.26), depending on published data.
Booking Tips
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At airports, use official taxi ranks and avoid unlicensed transfers.
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If you’re arriving late at night, confirm the base fare: while AED 25 is typical, extra charges may apply for luggage or waiting time.
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Many airport taxi services integrate with the RTA apps or DTC booking channels.
# Ladies & Families Taxi (Pink Roof)
There’s a dedicated service for women and families in Dubai; pink-roofed taxis driven by female drivers, designed to provide extra comfort and security for solo female travellers or families. This aligns with the broader taxi service umbrella in Dubai, tailored to specific user needs.
Fare Structure
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Fares mirror standard taxi rates for the most part: e.g., daytime AED 5 base fare when hailed from the street.
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If booked via app, base may start higher (AED 12) as with standard app fares.
Booking Tips
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Use the official RTA / DTC apps or the designated “Ladies and Families” option in booking apps.
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Useful when travelling with children or for female riders who need a female driver.
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Always check the driver’s identity and that the roof colour is pink.
Limousine / Premium Taxi
Fare Structure
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Base fare: approx AED 11 to AED 12.5 for standard limousine initial charge.
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For XL or electric limousine models, initial fares can range from AED 16 to AED 20 during peak times.
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Per km rate: around AED 3.10 for premium service.
Booking Tips
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Best for corporate use, airport VIP pickups, or those wanting a “premium ride” experience.
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Book ahead via the DTC website/app or through the hotel concierge.
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Confirm inclusions (water, WiFi, etc) and whether waiting time or airport surcharge applies.
# People of Determination Taxi (Accessible Service)
The “People of Determination” service is a specialised taxi fleet for passengers with special needs, featuring ramps and accessibility features. It’s part of Dubai’s inclusive mobility system and falls under DTC’s taxi services.
Fare Structure
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Starting base fare: approx AED 8.
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The per-km rate aligns with regular taxis for the most part (~AED 2.2).
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Note: Some discounts apply to cardholders (e.g., SANAD card) for persons with disabilities.
Booking Tips
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You can book via phone (04 208 0808) or through the RTA/DTC app.
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Indicate your accessibility requirements in advance to ensure the vehicle is adequately equipped.
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Allows families or companions to travel comfortably together.
# In Safe Hands Service
The In Safe Hands Service by the Dubai Taxi Company (DTC) is designed for customers who value consistent, safe, and reliable travel. It allows passengers to book a taxi daily, weekly, or monthly, making it a convenient choice for families, women, students, and people of determination seeking secure, door-to-door transportation.
This service ensures that every trip is handled by a professional, trained driver dedicated to your schedule. It’s ideal for school runs, regular office commutes, or long-term travel needs, offering complete peace of mind and comfort.
Required Documents
To subscribe to the In Safe Hands Service, customers need to provide:
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A valid Emirates ID
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A signed contract for the chosen plan (daily, weekly, or monthly)
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A bank transfer copy as proof of payment
Additionally, you can upgrade your travel experience by choosing a luxury or limousine taxi, offering a more personalized, premium ride.
Fare Structure
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Base Fare: AED 25
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Luxury Vehicle: AED 3.36 per kilometer
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Regular Taxi: AED 2.23 per kilometer
This premium taxi service in Dubai ensures safety, reliability, and comfort for every passenger, whether for short-term trips or recurring travel plans.
#DTC My Driver
The My Driver service is part of DTC’s comprehensive list of services. It allows you to hire a well-trained and qualified driver to drive your car. It can also be booked daily, weekly, or monthly. To hire a driver for your vehicle, make sure your car is registered and fully insured. Also, an Emirates ID is required.
Fare
- Daily charges will be AED 250 for a straight eight-hour shift. For extra hours, AED 40 per hour will be included. Plus, the VAT for this service is 12.5 AED.
- AED 1000 for a week with VAT AED 50. For working days.
- AED 3500 monthly (VAT AED 175).excluding Saturdays and Sundays, with an eight-hour daily shift.
Note: If you need this service on weekends, it will cost AED 250 extra each day.
Furthermore, you are required to book the My Driver service for 2 to 3 days with all the mentioned documents.
Rental Taxi Dubai
If you need a taxi for the whole day, the DTC offers a driver and a car to meet your travel needs. To avail of this service, you need to book the rental taxi at least a day in advance. Additionally, you can reserve a taxi for a whole day.
Fare
The base fare for rental taxis is AED 500 for 6 hours, AED 800 for 12 hours, and AED 1000 for 24 hours.
Payment Methods
Lastly, the DTC has made the hailing process simple. From booking the ride to paying for the taxi, the process is simple and takes 3 to 4 minutes for customers. As for payment methods, there are multiple options available at DTC. You can choose to pay by cash, credit or debit card, NOL card, or the DTC app.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the cheapest taxi service in Dubai?
A: The standard public taxi (red-roof) hailed from the street offers the lowest base fare (approx AED 5 daytime).
Q: Can I book a taxi ahead of time for airport pickup?
A: Yes. You can book via the DTC app or at the airport taxi rank. Airport taxi base fare is typically AED 25.
Q: Are there taxis specifically for women or families?
A: Yes. The pink-roof “Ladies & Families” taxis, driven by female drivers, are part of Dubai’s taxi service.
Q: What about payment? Can I use cards?
A: Yes, cards (credit/debit) are accepted in most taxis; you can also pay in cash or use the NOL card in some vehicles.
Q: How do I recognise which operator’s taxi it is?
A: The roof colour gives it away (e.g., red-roof for DTC standard; pink for ladies/families).
Conclusion
Understanding taxi services in Dubai means you’ll make more intelligent choices: know the type of taxi, colour code, fare structure, and booking method. Whether you’re jumping into a red-roof standard cab to explore the city affordably, or booking a pink-roof ladies taxi for added security, or reserving a limousine for a business trip, the choices are clear. Prepare, book smartly, enjoy the ride, and you’ll travel to Dubai with ease.
Looking to explore more about Dubai’s transport innovations, automotive insights, and travel tips? Visit the ArabWheels for expert guides, car reviews, and the latest updates on road travel and taxi services in Dubai. Stay informed and plan your next trip smarter!