Dubai is one of the hottest places to visit, and we’re not just talking temperature. It is a tourist destination, and one of the safest cities to visit in the Middle East. People flock to this hyper luxurious and ultra modern city for a multitude of reasons ranging from business to fun. Everyone has to get around, and the transportation of choice is taxis.
How to Spot a Legal Taxi in Dubai
Like many cities around the world, there are legal and illegal taxis in Dubai. Cream colored taxis are licensed and legally operated by Dubai Taxi Corporation. Privately run taxis have different colored roofs, these are also legal, safe, and available to hail. If someone approaches you offering a taxi ride, don’t take them up on it because they are operating an illegal one. Taxis can be hailed on the street like you would do in New York City, from a taxi stand, by calling the taxi company directly, or by using Dubai’s free Smart Taxi App. Taxis in Dubai are safe for everyone. They are even safe for women riding alone at any time of day; it is always best to sit in the back seat of a taxi to avoid any miscommunication or misinterpretation.
Dubai Taxi Fares
Taxis in Dubai are the most comfortable, fastest, and cheapest way to get around the city. For people used to American and European taxi prices, Dubai has shockingly low taxi fares, which makes it an even more attractive mode of transportation. Fares depend on the time of day. Between 6:00 am and 10:00 pm, the fare begins at Dhs8. Between 10:00pm and 6:00am, fares begin at Dhs9. Every kilometer after is an additional Dhs1.82. Minimum fares are Dhs12, which is only $3.27.
Most taxi drivers speak some English. Most drivers are familiar with Dubai, but they are not as versed as New York City’s taxi drivers, and not all use a navigational system. When giving the driver a destination, people give a landmark like a hotel, monument, or other major destination. If they don’t use a navigational system and you have access to one, you can offer to let them use yours to help make the trip a little easier.
All taxis accept credit cards, but if you do pay in cash, use small bills because the drivers may not be able to break large bills. Tipping is not mandatory, but Dhs5 or Dhs10 is a polite amount to tip your driver if you choose to do so.
Dubai is a great city for work or play. Taxis are an affordable and convenient way to navigate the city whether you’re there to stay or popping in for a visit.
