November 6, 2025 | Dubai, UAE: The authorities have declared a new feature for app-booked taxis. The revised taxi fare in Dubai changes the fee structure, introducing time-based booking fees and higher charges for e-rides. The ordinary taxi rules remain unchanged.
Meaning of the Revised Taxi Fare in Dubai
For the app-booked taxis, such as Kareem or Bold, or the authorized taxi e-hail service, the revised taxi fare in Dubai states,
- There will be an increase in the base fare.
- The charges will depend on the time. During peak hours, it may be higher, and during off-peak hours, it will be as low as 4 dirhams.
- The peak hours have been defined from early mornings to evenings, and the weekends have expanded slots.
- The time of the day will also affect the charges, and there will be an additional charge at night.
- Inclusively, these rules only apply to taxi rides booked via applications, and the ordinary taxis remain unharmed by these rules.
The revised taxi fare in Dubai aims to change the structure of supply and demand, reduce waste time, reduce waiting times, and align with the international pricing structures.
Effect on Travellers
The revised taxi fare in Dubai will have several implications for citizens, depending on the travel. For shorter trips through taxi apps, the increase in the base fare and charges means that these rides will now cost more.
For example, a short journey during off-peak time might rise to a higher percentage. Peak hour travelers will be highly affected as traveling during their walk times or even during the evenings will have an full extra charge, making it pretty expensive.
People who are traveling through the night using app-booked taxis will also face higher charges since the extra charge and surplus will both be at their peaks during this time. This will still be less than the peak-hour rates, as those fares are still higher than the other fares.
Additionally, the traditional taxis are exempt from the revised taxi fare in Dubai, as this initiative is only for app-booked taxis.
Reason for the Revised Taxi Fare in Dubai
The revised taxi fare in Dubai was declared by the Transport Authority as an extensive initiative to bolster the transport sphere and reduce congestion. One of the key elements behind this initiative is the price factor, which should adjust the price according to the peak hours.
By enhancing the charges during peak times and lowering them during off-peak hours, the Authority aims to structure the demand accordingly and reduce wait times. Another crucial element is the massive shift towards app-booked taxis, with more travellers using these apps rather than booking them directly.
The Authority has customised the model accordingly to align with technology. This shows that the applications are different than the ordinary taxis, while ensuring a fair price structure. The revised taxi fare in Dubai also highlights accountability for travellers. By giving out more moderate fare based on the demand and supply, the Authority ensures that travellers can choose before confirming a ride.
Moreover, the change in the fare meets the city’s vision, encouraging more travel and reducing queues during peak hours.
The revised taxi fare in Dubai is a transformative leap for app-booked taxis, a surge in the base fare, and a difference between app-booked and ordinary taxis. While the ordinary taxi prices remain unaltered, app-booked taxis must inculcate the new model, especially during peak times. As the city evolves under the authorities’ vision, the revised taxi fare in Dubai will affect your budget and travel. It will also help you understand when and where to travel and be cost-efficient.
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