Decode every taxi roof color in Dubai and discover what it reveals about your ride
1. Dubai Taxi Roof Colors Meaning and Fleet Size
Dubai has over 12,000 registered taxis, all under one main system but with a colorful twist — their roofs. You’ll notice red, blue, green, yellow, orange, and pink taxi roofs all across the city. These colors actually mean something. Each roof color indicates the operating franchise behind the car, even though fares are regulated and remain consistent across the board.
Here’s how Dubai’s taxi system is structured by color and fleet:
Taxi Color Breakdown in Dubai
This colored-roof system was introduced in the late 2000s. It replaced the old model where each company operated entirely different-looking taxis. Today, all taxis have the same sand-colored base with the only visual difference being the roof.
This makes it easy for officials and passengers to identify which operator they used in case of issues like forgotten items. It’s also a clever branding system for each franchise. Despite the different colors, all vehicles are RTA-approved and follow the same meter rates.
2. Red Roof Dubai Taxi: Dubai Taxi Corporation
The red-roof taxi is the most common one you’ll find on Dubai roads. Operated by the Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC), this is the main arm of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Most people who book a ride through Careem or the DTC app will be matched with a red-roof vehicle.
What makes red-roof taxis different:
Largest operational fleet across the city
Priority in bookings made via the DTC app
Includes pink-roof variants for women-only rides
Operated directly by the RTA’s own unit
Phone: 800 88088
Apps: DTC app or Careem
These taxis are equipped with the latest meters and tracking systems. They also offer Hala Taxi integration for smoother app-based bookings. All drivers are trained under RTA supervision and vehicles are maintained regularly through DTC’s internal network.
Even when using a ride-hailing platform, most residents and tourists end up in a red-roof taxi simply due to their widespread availability.
3. Blue Roof Dubai Taxi: Cars Taxi in Dubai
Cars Taxi was the first franchised taxi company to operate in Dubai under the RTA system. Their taxis are recognized by a blue-colored roof and have been part of the fleet since April 2000. They use both petrol and hybrid vehicles, making them a slightly greener option.
Key features of blue-roof taxis:
Operated by Cars Taxi Group
Hybrid vehicle options available
Bookable through Careem
Known for consistent driver ratings
Phone: 04 269 3344
App: Careem
Cars Taxi operates across Dubai and other Emirates as well. Though smaller than the DTC red-roof fleet, blue-roof taxis are still a common sight, especially in key areas like Deira, Bur Dubai, and parts of Sheikh Zayed Road.
If you get matched with a blue-roof taxi through the app, expect the same fare and meter system as any other RTA cab. The only difference is the operator behind the wheel.
4. Green Roof Dubai Taxi: Arabia Taxi Dubai
The green-roof taxis are operated by Arabia Taxi, which entered the Dubai market in 2005. The company started with around 500 vehicles and has grown to nearly double its original fleet. These taxis focus heavily on hybrid cars and cleaner emissions.
Notable aspects of green-roof taxis:
Environmentally friendly focus
Moderate-sized fleet
Covers all of Dubai including residential zones
Operates fully under RTA pricing guidelines
Phone: 04 285 1111
App: Careem
Arabia Taxi emphasizes hybrid vehicle use, which aligns with Dubai’s broader green transport goals. You may not see as many green roofs as red or blue, but they are quite active in communities like Al Qusais, Al Nahda, and near major parks.
These taxis are also fitted with all RTA-mandated features like cameras, fare meters, and customer support tools.
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5. Yellow Roof Dubai Taxi: National Taxi Service
National Taxi is represented by yellow taxi roofs in Dubai. The company started in 2000 with just 50 vehicles but has expanded significantly to a fleet of over 1700. It operates under the RTA framework and uses modern vehicles with all required safety and tech features.
Key facts about yellow-roof taxis:
Managed by National Taxi LLC
Available across Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Fleet of more than 1700 cars
Accepts Hala Taxi and Careem bookings
Phone: 04 339 0002
App: Careem
Yellow-roof taxis are quite common in both urban centers and residential areas. The cars are RTA-regulated, so passengers pay the same rates as with any other roof color. What sets National Taxi apart is its service in both Emirates, making it ideal for those traveling between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Each car includes real-time trip tracking and integrated fare meters. Drivers follow the same training as those in DTC or Cars Taxi, making service and safety standards uniform.
6. Orange Roof Dubai Taxi: Metro Taxi Fleet
The orange roof might be the least spotted color among Dubai’s taxis. These belong to Metro Taxi, a smaller operator licensed under the RTA since 2000. While their fleet is limited, they follow the same rules, pricing, and service policies as larger operators.
What you should know:
Operated by Metro Taxi LLC
Smaller fleet size compared to others
Serves all Dubai zones, including outskirts
Available via Careem
Phone: 04 267 3222
App: Careem
If you get an orange-roof taxi on your app, it simply means a Metro Taxi car is closest to your pickup point. There's no need to worry about pricing — the meter will start at the same base rate as all other RTA-approved taxis.
The interior, quality of service, and tracking system are all compliant with RTA’s tech requirements. While you may not see many orange roofs, they are fully active and reliable in every part of the city.
7. Pink Roof Dubai Taxi: Women-Only Taxi by DTC
One of Dubai’s most appreciated taxi options is the pink-roof cab. These are exclusively for women and children, and all drivers are women. Operated under the Dubai Taxi Corporation, this service was designed to offer privacy, comfort, and security.
Highlights of pink-roof taxis:
Exclusively driven by women
For female passengers and children only
Available through DTC app or Careem
Full RTA regulation and safety standards
Booking Info:
Phone: 800 88088
App: DTC or Careem
These taxis are perfect for solo female travelers or mothers with kids. The drivers are trained in safety, customer care, and navigation across the city. They are often requested at schools, malls, and residential complexes.
While fewer in number, pink-roof taxis have become an essential part of the Dubai taxi system. If you’re booking via app, make sure to select the women-only option.
8. What Is a Hala Taxi in Dubai?
Hala Taxi is not a new brand or vehicle type. Instead, it is a digital booking platform integrated into the Careem app. It connects passengers to the nearest RTA-approved taxi — regardless of roof color. Hala was created through a partnership between the RTA and Careem to make taxi access faster and more efficient.
What Hala Taxi does:
Lets you book any official Dubai taxi via Careem
Matches you with the nearest available driver
Offers real-time fare estimates and route tracking
Operates 24/7 across the city
Hala doesn’t have its own taxis — it connects you to red, blue, yellow, green, or other RTA taxis through the app. This makes it easy to track your driver, pay via card, and rate the experience after the ride.
Hala Taxi has become the go-to method for residents who don’t want to wait on the street. It’s especially useful during peak hours or when booking for airports and events.
9. Do Dubai Taxi Roof Colors Affect Fare?
Despite the visible roof color differences, fare pricing is identical across all Dubai taxis. All vehicles operate under the authority of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), meaning no matter which color you ride in, the starting fare, per kilometer charge, and waiting time cost are all the same.
Dubai Taxi Fare Structure
This consistent pricing system keeps things fair. So whether you're in a red, green, or blue-roof cab, you’ll pay the same based on distance and time. The only variations may come with minimum fare thresholds or booking fees applied by certain apps, but the meter itself remains standardized across all franchises.
Even if you book a taxi in advance or through Hala or Careem, the final fare still follows this RTA-approved structure.
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10. How to Book a Dubai Taxi with Specific Roof Colors
While most passengers just accept the first available ride on booking apps, some prefer taxis from a specific operator — maybe due to previous good experience, language comfort, or availability in their neighborhood. Though the Careem app doesn't allow you to select roof colors, booking through specific hotlines or apps does improve your chances.
Taxi Color and Booking Channels
If you want a women-only pink-roof taxi, for example, booking through the DTC app gives you more control. Same goes for red-roof DTC cabs, which respond fastest through their official number or app. For other operators, calling their hotline slightly increases the chance of getting the car you want.
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11. Where You’ll Spot Each Dubai Taxi Color Most Often
Each taxi operator has a varied presence across Dubai, depending on their fleet size, zone allocation, and demand patterns. While all taxis can technically serve the entire city, you’ll notice some patterns when it comes to which colors are more active in certain areas.
Typical Distribution Zones by Roof Color
Red-roof taxis dominate across the board, including airports and metro stations. Green and blue taxis are more visible in residential zones, while yellow and orange show up in commercial districts. Pink taxis are strategically placed where female passengers or families are more likely to board.
These aren’t fixed routes, but knowing the tendencies helps you spot what to expect when hailing a cab on the street.
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12. Quick Facts About Dubai Taxi Roof Colors
Still deciding whether the color really matters? Here’s a summary of useful facts to help you better understand Dubai's colored roof system.
Essential Takeaways:
All taxis have the same sand-colored body
Roof color only indicates the franchise operator
Fare, vehicle type, and meter system are identical across all taxis
Hala Taxi connects you to the nearest available RTA taxi regardless of roof
Pink-roof taxis are only for women and children and are driven by women
Most frequently spotted: Red, Blue, and Yellow
Least common: Orange and Pink
Direct booking via hotline improves your chances of getting a specific roof color
There’s no bad choice when it comes to a Dubai taxi. They’re all maintained under strict RTA regulations, and every driver is trained to meet city standards. The colors are mainly for tracking, branding, and a bit of added personality. So next time a red-roof or green-roof taxi pulls up — you’ll know exactly what that means.
FAQs on Dubai Taxi Roof Colours
What do the colors of the roof of taxis mean in Dubai?
The roof color of a Dubai taxi indicates the company that operates the vehicle under the RTA. While all taxis are regulated by the RTA and charge the same fares, the roof colors help passengers identify which franchise they're using. For example, red roofs belong to the Dubai Taxi Corporation, blue roofs to Cars Taxi, green to Arabia Taxi, yellow to National Taxi, orange to Metro Taxi, and pink roofs to the women-only DTC fleet. It’s purely a branding distinction, not a pricing one.
Why do Dubai’s taxis have different colored roofs?
Different colored taxi roofs in Dubai are used to distinguish between various licensed operators working under the RTA. This change was introduced in the late 2000s to create a uniform look for all taxis, using a beige base color and colorful roofs. It makes it easier for passengers to track which company they rode with, especially in case of complaints or lost items. Despite the color difference, all vehicles follow the same fare structure and RTA regulations.
What is the green roof taxi in Dubai?
A green-roof taxi in Dubai belongs to Arabia Taxi. This company entered the market in 2005 and started with 500 vehicles. It now operates a larger hybrid-friendly fleet with a focus on eco-conscious transportation. These taxis are available across all zones and can be booked via the Careem app or by calling their hotline. The interiors and service are similar to other RTA taxis, offering consistency in fares and travel experience. The green roof simply reflects the operator, not a difference in ride type.
How many colors of taxi roofs are there in Dubai?
There are six main taxi roof colors in Dubai, and each one represents a different RTA-approved company. All vehicles share the same sand-colored body, but the roof color helps differentiate the operator.
Here are the six colors and their associated companies:
Red – Dubai Taxi Corporation
Blue – Cars Taxi
Green – Arabia Taxi
Yellow – National Taxi
Orange – Metro Taxi
Pink – Women-only Dubai Taxi Corporation
Every taxi, regardless of color, follows identical fare and safety guidelines, regulated by RTA.
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What is the pink taxi in Dubai?
The pink-roof taxi in Dubai is a women-only taxi service operated by the Dubai Taxi Corporation. These vehicles are driven exclusively by female drivers and are meant for women passengers or women traveling with children. They offer a more private, secure experience and can be booked through the DTC app or by calling the official number. These taxis are available in popular areas like malls, schools, and clinics, and provide the same pricing and comfort level as regular RTA taxis.
What do the colors of Hala taxis mean?
The color of a Hala taxi corresponds to the operating franchise behind the car. Hala itself is not a separate type of taxi, but rather a digital booking platform available via Careem. When you book through Hala, your ride might arrive with any of the following roof colors:
Each operates under the RTA, and the color only reflects the company dispatching the ride.
What does the roof light on a taxi mean?
The roof light on a Dubai taxi typically shows whether the taxi is available, occupied, or off-duty. A lit roof sign generally indicates that the taxi is available for hire, while an unlit or dimmed light means it is already occupied. Some models also have a display panel for the driver’s ID or service number. These lights are standard across the fleet and help both passengers and authorities quickly assess a taxi’s status while on the road.
What is the cream-colored taxi in Dubai?
The cream-colored body of a Dubai taxi is standard across the entire fleet, regardless of the operator. This color creates visual uniformity across all franchises, which is why the roof color is used to distinguish between companies. So whether your taxi has a red, green, or yellow roof, the body will always be a sandy beige color. This was part of a citywide update to the taxi system initiated in the late 2000s to make public transport more cohesive.
Why is the color of taxis in Dubai important?
The color of a Dubai taxi’s roof serves as a clear visual ID of the company operating the vehicle. This helps passengers report issues, retrieve lost items, and identify which provider to contact for bookings. While it doesn’t impact fare, comfort, or vehicle features, the color system plays an essential role in maintaining order in a city with more than 12,000 taxis. It’s a practical system that also aids branding and streamlines passenger experience.
How do I order a pink taxi in Dubai?
Booking a pink-roof taxi in Dubai is simple. You can do it by calling 800 88088, using the Dubai Taxi Corporation app, or booking through Careem with the female driver preference selected. These taxis are available 24/7 and operate like all other RTA vehicles. To improve your chances of booking one quickly, it’s best to do so from areas like malls, airports, schools, or medical centers, where pink taxis are more commonly stationed.
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What is a Hala Taxi?
A Hala Taxi is a regular RTA taxi that you book using the Careem app. Hala is not a company or vehicle type, but a booking method that uses smart dispatch to match you with the closest available RTA taxi, regardless of roof color. It’s convenient, digital, and allows for app-based payment, route tracking, and ride rating. This system has become the most popular way for residents and tourists to book taxis without calling hotlines or hailing on the street.
What is the yellow taxi in Dubai?
A yellow-roof taxi in Dubai is operated by National Taxi. This company began in 2000 and now manages a fleet of over 1700 vehicles. It runs across all zones and offers service equivalent to other taxis, including real-time meter tracking and trained drivers. You can book a yellow-roof taxi using the Careem app or by calling National Taxi directly. While not as common as red-roof taxis, yellow ones are a regular part of Dubai’s roads and provide full RTA fare compliance.
Who owns taxis in Dubai?
All taxis in Dubai operate under the regulation of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), but the actual operating companies include several private and semi-government firms. As of November 2023, the ownership of the Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC) was transferred to the Department of Finance for the Government of Dubai. This means DTC is now a government-owned entity. Other franchises like Cars Taxi and Metro Taxi operate privately but under strict RTA policies for consistency in service and pricing.
Where are the different taxi colors commonly seen in Dubai?
While all taxis can operate citywide, some are more common in certain areas based on fleet size or dispatch trends. For example:
Red Roof: Seen everywhere, especially at malls and airports
Blue Roof: Common in Deira and older city zones
Green Roof: Visible in Al Qusais and school districts
Yellow Roof: Often spotted along Sheikh Zayed Road and Marina
Orange Roof: Occasionally found in quieter or industrial zones
Pink Roof: Regularly parked near clinics, schools, and family areas
This distribution is flexible, but these trends hold for day-to-day visibility.
How can I contact each taxi company directly?
Here’s a table of the main taxi operators in Dubai and how to reach them for bookings or queries:
You can also book most of these via the Careem app or, in some cases, the operator’s official app.
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only. The details mentioned are based on the best available information at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice by the respective authorities. Readers are encouraged to consult the relevant offices directly for the most accurate and updated information.