Dubai: Taxis will be automatically dispatched to Expo 2020 Dubai site based on passenger demand, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced on Tuesday, following the launch of ‘Auto Dispatch’ system. The system will allow RTA to “know exactly how many taxis are needed at any given time and automatically dispatch the cabs to the Expo site”.
The RTA will also ramp up and provide the entire Dubai Taxi fleet with the Hala e-hailing service by collaborating with all of its franchise partners. Hala is a joint venture between RTA and Careem that enables customers to book any taxi in Dubai via an app developed in-house by Careem.
Supply and demand
Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO of Public Transport Agency at RTA, said: “With the magnitude of visitors expected to visit Expo 2020, (we) have the opportunity and responsibility of making sure that their commute is safe and seamless. Through our innovative digital solution, the ride hailing service is able to know exactly how many taxis are needed at any given time and automatically dispatch these to the Expo site. The increased taxi fleet enables the service to optimally balance supply and demand, making it more convenient for riders traveling to and from the Expo grounds.”
“Tourists, residents, and visitors at Expo 2020 will have the ease of booking the taxis through their phones via the application, or self-serving kiosks. Customers will avail a one-time password (OTP) to instantly book via their mobile, connect with any driver, and immediately take off on their journey with zero waiting time,” RTA explained.
There are around 15,000 taxis and limousines spread across Dubai, including 9,710 taxicabs and 5,681 limousines, which can be booked through RTA’s e-hail services that run 24X7.
Basil Hovakeemian, CEO of Hala, commented, “We are extremely excited to be joining efforts with the RTA at this prestigious event. We are committed to offering customers and visitors the most efficient, convenient, and affordable taxi service possible.”
