RED GIVES GREEN LIGHT TO FEMALE TAXI DRIVERS

has completed all the necessary formalities with RED and the RAK Municipality, besides other government bodies. It is expected to be operational by February 2006. “The company constitutes a real boost to the boom that covers the emirate’s entire economic and social sectors,” Najeeb Al Shamsi, Director General of RED, told City Times.

The emirate is planning to develop its tourism sectors through establishing a number of hotels and entertainment facilities. “The company’s fleet will start with around 50 cars as a first stage, to be increased to 300 taxis within the coming years,” Rashid Subaa, one of the company’s owners, said.

Three investors, a UAE national, Iranian and a Dutch businessman, own the enterprise. The company would offer new and unique services that have never been introduced in the emirate so far. “Our services will be covering the RAK old city, the emirate’s entire remote areas, and other emirates,” he added.

This is in addition to hiring of four-wheel vehicles for off-road tours, besides home services. “The company is also planning to employ female and male drivers from all nationalities, including local people, for the convenience of our customers,” he added. “Through employing female cabbies, we will be able to offer our customers, particularly women and families, first-grade services that will satisfy their social and religious orientations,” he said.