Getting around Dubai couldn’t be simpler. With one of the world’s most organised taxi networks and a growing list of ride-hailing apps, moving from one side of the city to the other is fast, reliable and often surprisingly affordable. From government-run taxis to international luxury chauffeurs, Dubai offers something for every budget and travel style — whether you’re commuting daily, heading to the airport or planning a longer inter-emirate journey.
Below is a complete breakdown of Dubai’s taxi options in 2025, including booking methods, pricing insights and insider tips to help you spend less on every ride.
Taxi and Ride-Hailing Apps You Can Use in Dubai
1. Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC)
Dubai’s official taxi fleet is instantly recognisable by its red roof and remains the only service you can legally hail directly from the street. These taxis are widely available, though finding one during peak hours or driver shift changes can be tricky.
How to book:
Call 800 880 88 or use the DTC app
Fares:
• Dhs5 (6am–10pm)
• Dhs5.5 (10pm–6am)
• Dhs2.19 per kilometre
2. Hala Taxi
If affordability is your priority, Hala Taxi is one of the best options in the city. Integrated within the Careem app, it allows users to book standard cars or larger vehicles for group travel.
How to book:
Select “Hala Taxi” inside the Careem app
Fares:
• Dhs8 starting fare
• Dhs12 minimum charge
• Dhs1.91 per kilometre
3. Careem
A must-have app for Dubai residents, Careem offers everything from standard taxis to premium rides and even trips between emirates. It also acts as a gateway to Hala Taxis.
How to book:
Android and iOS app
Pricing:
Calculated based on distance, waiting time and vehicle type
4. Uber
Uber operates widely across Dubai and is often better value for longer trips thanks to its fixed-price model. The app also allows advance bookings up to 30 days ahead.
How to book:
Android and iOS app
Pricing:
Flat-rate fares shown before confirmation
5. Bolt
New to the UAE market, Bolt is now integrated into nearly half of Dubai Taxi Company’s fleet. With thousands of vehicles available, it’s quickly becoming a convenient alternative for everyday rides.
How to book:
Bolt mobile app
Pricing:
Varies by distance and vehicle type
6. Yango
Operating across multiple countries, Yango has entered Dubai with smart features like multi-car bookings and alternative pick-up suggestions to reduce costs and journey times.
How to book:
Android and iOS app
Pricing:
Based on starting fee, distance and waiting time
7. XXRIDE
A globally recognised ride-hailing platform, XXRIDE now operates legally in Dubai, offering both ridesharing and private bookings.
How to book:
Android and iOS app
Pricing:
Metered based on distance, time and vehicle choice
8. Drife
Launching with a flexible pricing model, Drife allows drivers to offer standard fares, discounted rides or premium pricing. The platform initially focuses on limousines, with plans to expand further.
How to book:
Drife mobile app
Pricing:
Set by the driver based on trip and vehicle
9. Blacklane
Ideal for airport transfers and business travel, Blacklane provides chauffeur-driven rides with complimentary waiting time — perfect if your flight is delayed.
How to book:
Via the website
Pricing:
Depends on vehicle class and journey length
10. Wheely
For a high-end experience, Wheely offers luxury vehicles with premium amenities such as charging ports, bottled water and immaculate interiors.
How to book:
Wheely app or website
Pricing:
• Business Class from Dhs40
• LUXE services from Dhs350
Taking a Taxi from Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Catching a taxi from DXB is straightforward thanks to dedicated ranks at every terminal, operating 24/7.
Airport taxi fares:
• Dhs25 airport starting fee
• Dhs1.96 per kilometre
Ride-hailing services like Uber can also be booked directly from the app, with designated pick-up points depending on your terminal.
Taxi Travel Between Dubai and Abu Dhabi
A one-way taxi journey to Abu Dhabi typically costs between Dhs250 and Dhs300. You can arrange this by hailing a street taxi or booking through Careem.
Understanding Dubai Taxi Roof Colours
With more than 12,000 taxis operating across the emirate, you’ll notice a range of roof colours on Dubai taxis. These colours indicate vehicle categories and service types — and yes, they do matter.
Best Times to Book a Taxi in Dubai
Timing can significantly impact availability and travel time:
• Morning rush: 8am–10am
• School pick-up hours: 3pm–5pm
Booking earlier than peak times can help avoid delays and surge pricing.
Smart Taxi Tips Every Dubai Rider Should Know
Dubai’s taxi system offers more savings than most people realise — from cashback offers to strategic booking times that reduce fares.
Knowing when to ride, which app to use and how to avoid busy windows can make a big difference over time. 🚕
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