Getting around Dubai is easy with the Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC), offering a diverse range of taxi services tailored to residents and tourists alike.
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Whether you're commuting to work, heading to the airport, or enjoying a luxury limousine ride, Dubai taxi fares vary depending on the type of service, time of day, and distance traveled. In this updated 2025 guide, we’ll break down the latest Dubai taxi fare structure, how to use the Dubai Taxi Fare Calculator, additional charges like Salik toll fees, and tips to book a taxi in Dubai efficiently. Whether you're a resident looking for affordable daily commutes or a visitor seeking premium transport options, this guide will help you navigate Dubai’s taxi services with ease.
Overview of Dubai Taxi Services – 2025 Update
Dubai’s taxi services are among the most efficient and accessible transport options, catering to a wide range of passengers, from daily commuters to tourists. Operated by the Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC), under the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), these taxis provide convenience, safety, and affordability across the emirate.
Each taxi type is designed for a specific purpose, ensuring that different customer needs are met. Below is a detailed overview of Dubai’s main taxi services in 2025.
1. Standard Taxis
These are the most common taxis in Dubai, available 24/7 across the city. They are cream-colored, with different roof colors indicating different operators. The starting fare and per-kilometer rates are fixed, but may vary depending on the time of the day.
Key Features
Available for street hailing or online booking
Affordable and widely used by both residents and tourists
Metered fare structure ensures transparency
Different taxi operators distinguished by red, blue, yellow, or green roofs
Fare Structure
Starting Fare: AED 5 (6 AM – 10 PM) | AED 5.50 (10 PM – 6 AM)
Per Kilometer Charge: AED 2.14
Minimum Fare: AED 12
2. Airport Taxis
These taxis are exclusively designated for passengers arriving at Dubai International Airport. They are available at all terminals and offer fixed rates for trips within Dubai and to other emirates.
Key Features
Available at Terminal 1, 2, and 3 of Dubai Airport
Larger vehicles to accommodate luggage and extra passengers
No advance booking required – available on-demand at airport taxi ranks
Higher base fare compared to standard taxis due to airport service surcharge
Fare Structure
Starting Fare: AED 25
Per Kilometer Charge: AED 2.14
Waiting Time Charge: AED 0.50 per minute
3. Ladies and Families Taxis
Designed for the comfort and security of women and families, these taxis are driven exclusively by female drivers. They can be identified by their pink roofs and are available at airports, malls, hospitals, and key public areas.
Key Features
Female-driven taxis for women and families
Available via street hailing, call booking, and app reservations
Ideal for mothers with children or those preferring a female driver
Slightly higher fare than standard taxis
Fare Structure
Starting Fare:
Airport: AED 25 | AED 2.33 per km
City: AED 5 (6 AM – 10 PM) | AED 5.50 (10 PM – 6 AM)
Minimum Fare: AED 12
4. People of Determination Taxis
Dubai is committed to inclusive transportation, offering specialized taxis equipped to serve people of determination. These taxis feature wheelchair-accessible ramps, wider doors, and additional safety features.
Key Features
Wheelchair-friendly vehicles with easy access
Special discounts for Sanad cardholders (50 percent off)
Available at airports, hospitals, metro stations, and major public locations
Option to book a regular taxi with accessibility features for non-motor disabilities via the DTC app
Fare Structure
Airport Fare: Starting fare AED 25 | AED 2.33 per km
City Fare: AED 5 (6 AM – 10 PM) | AED 5.50 (10 PM – 6 AM)
Booking Fee: AED 10 – AED 12
5. Limousine Services
For those seeking a luxury travel experience, the DTC Limousine Service provides high-end chauffeur-driven vehicles such as Tesla, Lexus, and Infiniti. Unlike regular taxis, these vehicles do not operate on a meter; instead, they charge higher fixed rates per kilometer.
Key Features
Luxury fleet of premium cars
Airport pick-up service available
Must be booked in advance, not available for street hailing
Ideal for business executives and VIP guests
Fare Structure
Airport Fare: Starting at AED 25 | AED 3.67 per km
City Fare: Meter starts at AED 7.50 | AED 3.67 per km
Limousine Rental:
AED 400 for 3 hours
AED 700 for 6 hours
AED 1,200 for 12 hours
Additional hourly rate: AED 100
Which Dubai Taxi Service is Right for You
Dubai offers a taxi service for every need, from affordable daily commutes to premium chauffeur-driven experiences. Here is a quick comparison to help you decide.
Dubai’s taxis can be booked via the DTC Smart App, Careem, or RTA’s S’hail app. Always check the Dubai Taxi Fare Calculator for the most accurate fare estimate before booking your ride.
By understanding these different taxi services, you can choose the best transportation option for your needs and budget in Dubai.
You might also like: Taxi Apps in Dubai Guide
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Detailed Fare Structure – Dubai Taxi Fares 2025
Taxi fares in Dubai are structured based on the type of service, time of day, and distance traveled. The fare is determined by a combination of base fare, per-kilometer rate, and waiting time charge, ensuring a transparent and regulated pricing system.
Key Fare Components
Base Fare: The initial charge applied when the ride begins. This varies based on the time of day and the type of taxi service.
Per Kilometer Rate: The cost charged for each kilometer traveled. Different taxi types have different per-kilometer charges.
Waiting Time Charge: An additional fee applied when the taxi is stationary due to traffic or when passengers request a stop during the trip.
Minimum Fare: The lowest fare that a taxi trip will cost, regardless of distance.
Dubai Taxi Fare Breakdown (2025 Updated Rates)
Important Notes:
Salik toll charges (AED 4 per gate) are not included in the meter fare and will be added to the total cost.
Waiting time is calculated when the taxi is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights or when a passenger requests a stop).
Airport taxis have a higher base fare due to their dedicated airport service.
Limousine services operate at a premium rate and require advance booking.
For the most accurate taxi fare estimates, use the Dubai Taxi Fare Calculator available on the DTC Smart App or the official Dubai Taxi Corporation website.
Peak and Off-Peak Hours for Dubai Taxis – 2025 Update
Taxi fares in Dubai may fluctuate based on peak and off-peak hours, influenced by demand, traffic conditions, and time of day. Understanding these time slots helps in planning cost-effective trips, especially for commuters and tourists navigating the city.
Peak and Off-Peak Timings
Daytime: 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Peak Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Night: 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM
Daytime: 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Peak Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM, 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Night: 12:00 AM – 6:00 AM
Daytime: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Peak Hours: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Night: 12:00 AM – 6:00 AM
Key Takeaways:
Peak hours mean higher demand, which can sometimes result in longer waiting times for taxis.
Avoid peak times if possible to reduce fare costs and waiting periods.
Off-peak hours generally offer smoother rides with less traffic congestion.
Night fares apply from 10 PM to 6 AM, meaning a slightly higher base fare and per-kilometer charge.
Additional Charges in Dubai Taxis
Passengers should be aware of extra charges that may be added to their final taxi fare, depending on their route, booking method, and other factors.
1. Salik (Toll) Charges
Each time a taxi passes through a Salik toll gate, an additional AED 4 is added to the fare.
Toll charges are paid by the passenger and are not included in the standard fare.
Salik gates are located on major roads such as Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Garhoud Bridge, and Al Maktoum Bridge.
2. Booking Fees
App-based bookings through platforms like S’hail, DTC Smart App, or Careem may incur an additional booking fee.
The fee varies depending on the taxi type, pickup location, and time of booking.
3. Airport Surcharge
Trips originating from Dubai International Airport (DXB) incur a fixed airport surcharge of AED 25.
This charge is added to the base fare and applies to all taxi services, including standard taxis, ladies and families taxis, and people of determination taxis.
Tip: To avoid unexpected additional charges, check the fare breakdown on the Dubai Taxi Fare Calculator before confirming your ride.
How to Calculate Dubai Taxi Fare
Passengers can estimate their total taxi fare using a simple formula:
Taxi Fare Calculation Formula
Total Fare = Base Fare + (Per Kilometer Rate × Distance Traveled) + (Waiting Time Charge × Waiting Time in Minutes)
Example Calculation
Journey Details:
Distance: 10 kilometers
Waiting Time: 5 minutes
Standard Taxi Fare Calculation:
Base Fare: AED 5
Per Kilometer Rate: AED 2.14
Waiting Time Charge: AED 0.50 per minute
Total Fare Calculation:AED 5 + (AED 2.14 × 10) + (AED 0.50 × 5) = AED 5 + AED 21.4 + AED 2.5 = AED 28.9
Key Considerations:
The actual fare may vary depending on traffic conditions, route taken, and Salik charges.
Longer waiting times in traffic congestion can increase the fare due to waiting time charges.
Use the DTC Smart App or Dubai Taxi Fare Calculator for a real-time fare estimate based on your exact route and taxi type.
This structured pricing system ensures that Dubai taxis remain a transparent and efficient mode of public transport for both residents and visitors.
Booking and Payment Methods for Dubai Taxis – 2025 Update
Dubai offers multiple ways to book a taxi, ensuring convenience for both residents and tourists. Whether you prefer hailing a cab on the street, booking through an app, or scheduling a ride in advance, Dubai’s taxi system provides flexible options to suit different needs.
How to Book a Taxi in Dubai
1. Street Hailing
Available 24/7 across the city.
Look for the cream-colored taxis with red, blue, yellow, or green roofs.
Available near hotels, shopping malls, metro stations, and airports.
Simply raise your hand to stop a taxi when you see one approaching.
2. DTC Smart App (Dubai Taxi Corporation)
Official app for Dubai’s public taxis.
Offers real-time taxi tracking, estimated fares, and online payments.
Allows you to pre-book a ride or request an immediate pickup.
Downloadable on Google Play, Apple App Store, and Huawei App Gallery.
3. S’hail App (RTA Dubai)
Integrates all public transport options in Dubai, including taxis, metro, tram, and buses.
Provides fare estimates and allows bookings for DTC taxis and Careem taxis.
Available for Android and iOS users.
4. Careem and Uber
Private ride-hailing services that offer both economy and luxury rides.
Fares may vary based on demand, peak hours, and distance.
Payment options include cash, card, or digital wallets.
5. Booking by Phone (Dispatch Center)
Call +971-4-208-0808 to request a Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC) ride.
Best option for those without internet access.
Operator assigns the nearest available taxi based on your location.
6. Pre-Booking for Special Services
Airport taxis, limousine services, and people of determination taxis can be pre-booked via:
DTC Smart App
DTC official website (dubaitaxi.ae)
Phone booking (dispatch center)
Payment Methods for Dubai Taxis
Dubai taxis support various payment options, making it easy for passengers to pay conveniently.
1. Cash Payments
Accepted by all DTC taxis, airport taxis, and ladies & families taxis.
Pay the driver directly at the end of the trip.
Ensure you carry small change as drivers may have limited cash for high-value notes.
2. Card Payments (Credit/Debit Cards)
Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted in taxis.
Passengers can tap or insert their card in the taxi’s payment terminal.
3. Nol Card (RTA Public Transport Card)
Nol cards can be used to pay for RTA taxis, making it convenient for commuters using metro, bus, and tram services.
Tap your Nol card on the payment reader at the end of your trip.
4. Digital Wallets & Mobile Payments
Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay are accepted in most taxis.
Payments can also be made through the DTC Smart App or S’hail App.
5. Careem Pay & Uber Wallet
If booking a taxi via Careem or Uber, payment can be made using the in-app wallet system.
Linked credit/debit cards or Careem credits can be used for seamless transactions.
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Key Takeaways for Taxi Booking & Payment in Dubai
For quick rides, street hailing or the DTC Smart App is the best option.
For luxury travel, limousines must be pre-booked at least 24 hours in advance.
For budget-friendly travel, using a Nol card or booking via S’hail can offer added convenience.
For digital payments, most taxis support contactless payments and mobile wallets.
With these multiple booking and payment options, getting around Dubai is fast, efficient, and hassle-free.
Stay constantly updated with the latest developments in Dubai:
Dubai Taxi Fare Guide – 2025 FAQs
1. What is the minimum taxi fare in Dubai?
The minimum taxi fare in Dubai is AED 12, regardless of the distance traveled.
For standard taxis, the fare structure is:
Base Fare (Day: 6 AM – 10 PM): AED 5
Base Fare (Night: 10 PM – 6 AM): AED 5.50
Per Kilometer Rate: AED 2.14
Waiting Time Charge: AED 0.50 per minute
Even if the total fare calculation is lower than AED 12, passengers will be charged the minimum fare.
2. How much is 1 km for Grab?
Grab is not available in Dubai, as the city operates its own regulated taxi services under the Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC) and ride-hailing platforms like Careem and Uber.
For comparison, in Southeast Asia, Grab’s per-kilometer rate varies, but in Dubai, the per-kilometer taxi fare is:
Standard Taxi: AED 2.14 per km
Airport Taxi: AED 2.14 per km
Hala Taxi (Careem’s official taxi service): AED 2.10 per km
3. Can I pay cash for Careem?
Yes, Careem accepts cash payments for rides in Dubai.
Other payment options include:
Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay
Careem Pay Wallet
To pay in cash, select the "Cash" option in the Careem app before booking a ride.
4. What is Hala Taxi in Dubai?
Hala Taxi is Dubai’s official e-hailing taxi service, available exclusively through the Careem app. It allows passengers to book regular RTA taxis via Careem, offering fixed metered fares with no surge pricing.
Key features of Hala Taxi:
Same metered rates as Dubai Taxis
Available citywide, including airports and metro stations
Multiple payment options (cash, card, digital wallets)
Faster pickup times compared to street hailing
5. What is the minimum fare for Hala Taxi?
The minimum fare for a Hala Taxi ride in Dubai is AED 12, similar to standard RTA taxis.
Base Fare (Daytime): AED 5
Base Fare (Nighttime): AED 5.50
Per Kilometer Rate: AED 2.10
Even for short-distance trips, the fare will not go below AED 12.
6. What is Hala famous for?
Hala is known for:
Providing Dubai’s official taxi booking service via the Careem app
Offering metered fares without surge pricing
Ensuring reliable and fast taxi bookings across the city
Integrating with RTA’s transport system for seamless travel
Hala taxis are widely used by residents and tourists who want the convenience of app-based booking without the unpredictable pricing of private ride-hailing services.
7. Who owns Hala Taxi Dubai?
Hala Taxi is a joint venture between the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Careem. It is the official ride-hailing service for booking Dubai’s public taxis through an app.
Careem, a subsidiary of Uber, operates Hala in collaboration with the RTA, ensuring that fares remain regulated and metered like standard taxis.
8. How much does a taxi cost per day in Dubai?
If you plan to use a taxi for a full day, you can book a rental taxi service:
6-hour rental: AED 500
12-hour rental: AED 800 – AED 1,000
24-hour rental: AED 1,200 – AED 1,500
Booking a full-day taxi requires advance reservation via the DTC Smart App, RTA website, or customer service call center.
For frequent use, consider metro, bus, or Nol card options for cheaper transport alternatives.
9. How much is 1 km in a Dubai taxi?
The cost per kilometer in Dubai taxis varies based on the taxi type:
Standard Taxi: AED 2.14 per km
Airport Taxi: AED 2.14 per km
Hala Taxi (Careem’s official taxi service): AED 2.10 per km
Limousine Service: AED 3.56 per km
This per-kilometer charge is added to the base fare, and additional charges like waiting time and Salik tolls may apply.
10. Is a taxi or Uber cheaper in Dubai?
Dubai taxis are usually cheaper than Uber for most trips, except during peak hours when Uber’s dynamic pricing is lower than standard taxi fares.
General fare comparison:
Taxis: Fixed metered fares, no surge pricing
UberX & Careem Go: Slightly more expensive than taxis but offer cashless payments
Uber Black / Careem Business: More expensive, luxury vehicles
For short trips, taxis are cheaper. For longer rides or airport transfers, Uber/Careem may provide competitive pricing depending on demand.
11. Do taxis run 24/7 in Dubai?
Yes, Dubai taxis operate 24/7, including late nights, public holidays, and weekends.
However, during peak hours, weekends, and major events, availability may be limited, and wait times may be longer. To avoid delays, it’s best to pre-book a taxi via the DTC Smart App or Careem Hala.
12. How to book a full-day taxi in Dubai?
To book a full-day taxi rental, you can:
Use the DTC Smart App
Call Dubai Taxi Corporation’s customer service (+971-4-208-0808)
Book through RTA’s website
Available rental options:
6-hour taxi rental: AED 500
12-hour taxi rental: AED 800 – AED 1,000
24-hour taxi rental: AED 1,200 – AED 1,500
Limousines and private chauffeur services are also available for higher-end options.
13. What is the cheapest transportation in Dubai?
The cheapest public transport options in Dubai include:
Dubai Metro: Starts from AED 3 per trip
Public Buses: Starts from AED 3 per trip
Dubai Tram: AED 3 per trip
Water Buses/Abras: AED 1 – AED 5 per trip
For frequent commuters, using a Nol card for metro, bus, and tram travel offers discounted fares and daily/weekly pass options for unlimited rides.
If you plan to travel long distances daily, a monthly Nol card pass is the most cost-effective way to commute in Dubai.