Dubai: Carpooling in the UAE is not allowed, with authorities beefing up public awareness to prevent motorists from carrying out the traffic offence.
Abu Dhabi Police warned motorists that if found carpooling, the violation will be punishable with a fine of Dh3,000, 24 black points and the vehicle impounded for 30 days.
Brigadier Ibrahim Sultan Al Zaabi, director of the transport security department, said the main reason to ban carpooling was to protect members of the public from becoming a victim.
“There are a number of threats associated with using an unlicensed taxi, which include sexual harassment, theft, fraud, quarrels, and the driver may also be in violation of residency laws,” said Brig Al Zaabi.
In the first six months of 2018, more than 2,000 motorists were been fined for illegally transporting passengers in their private vehicles in the emirate of Abu Dhabi, according to police.
Last June, Gulf News reported that the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai suspended carpooling permits to encouraged commuters to use public transport and other smart alternatives.
Mohammad Abu Bakr Al Hashemi, Director, Planning and Business Development at RTA’s Public Transport Agency, said: “The RTA introduced various services which include ‘Smart Car Rental’, taxis, limousine and E-Hail services to help commuters reach their destinations and connect with different public transport modes. We encourage commuters to use public transport and other smart alternatives.”
