Pink taxis become popular in Dubai

Ladies taxis, known as ‘pink taxis’ in the emirates thanks to their distinguishable pink roof tops, have become the in thing these days, offering peace of mind to women choosing to use public transport.

By Lily B. Libo-on

Published: Thu 5 Sep 2013, 9:47 AM

Last updated: Tue 7 Apr 2015, 7:45 PM

A dedicated service to the special people in anyone’s lives, these pink taxis are driven by high-caliber, well trained and skillful lady drivers and are exclusively used for ladies and families from all nationalities.

Pink taxis are driven by women on Dubai roads. — KT file photo

Since the launch of this service with ten units in 2007, the ‘Pink Taxis’ have grown in number to 56 vehicles to meet the increasing demands from ladies and families and are operated by 141 lady drivers of various nationalities.

Before they can drive one of the taxis, drivers undergo work training routines with Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC), including learning how to operate the taxi’s electronic system, studying the tourist destinations in Dubai, customer service techniques, get equipped with the Al Ameen System – specifically on maintaining the safety of passengers and drivers, as well as practical driving training sessions.

DTC’s acting CEO Ahmed Mohammed Al Hammadi, said that DTC is currently conducting a study to see the market need for increasing ladies taxis.

“Our lady drivers have been qualified in training courses for 21 days from the Training Centre and Qualification Centre of DTC.”

Lebanese lady executive, Madiha Al Salam, says that she feels safe arriving at the Dubai Airports early morning or late evening from an overseas trip. “I can just hail any ‘Pink Taxi’ to pick me up at Dubai International Airport and take me home without any reservations or fear.”

“This service starts from 6am to 2am. Our lady drivers have healthcare insurance, 30 days annual leave as well as a day weekly holiday” said Al Hammadi.

Ladies taxis, family vans and all airport taxis start the meter on a fare of Dh25, and Dh20 is to be added if they go to Sharjah or the Northern emirates, when travelling from Dubai International Airport. “Our VIP Taxi Service is starting the meter from the airport at Dh50 with Dh2.25 per kilometre, day and night, with no additional Dh20 charge to passengers going to other emirates. Look for the taxi sign icon inside Terminal 1, 2 and 3 where our highly qualified taxi officers are waiting to drive you to your destination,” Al Hammadi says.

lily@khaleejtimes.com