Understanding the Colors of Dubai Taxi Roofs

If you live in Dubai, you’ve probably received a message from Careem or flagged down one of the city’s brightly colored taxis. With over 12,000 taxis buzzing around Dubai, each color signifies something unique. Have you ever wondered what the different colors of taxi roofs mean? Let's decode them for you.

Why Are Dubai Taxi Roofs Different Colors?

The variety in taxi roof colors stems from Dubai's private taxi companies. Initially, these companies operated independently with different vehicle designs. In the late 2000s, a decision was made to standardize the vehicle color to sand, with the roof color indicating the company. This uniformity helps passengers and officials easily identify the companies for lost items or complaints. Despite the color differences, all taxis operate under the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and charge the same rates.

What Does Each Color Represent?

Red Roof: Dubai Taxi Corporation
- The largest taxi company in Dubai, part of the RTA.
- Book via 800 88088, the DTC app, or Careem.

Blue Roof: Cars Taxi
- The first franchised taxi company in Dubai since April 2000, using petrol and hybrid vehicles.
- Book via 04 269 3344 or Careem.

Green Roof: Arabia Taxi
- Launched in 2005, focusing on environmentally friendly hybrid vehicles.
- Book via 04 285 1111 or Careem.

Yellow Roof: National Taxi
- Established in 2000 in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, now with over 1700 taxis.
- Book via 04 339 0002 or Careem.

Orange Roof: Metro Taxi
- Smaller fleet compared to others, also an RTA franchise.
- Book via 04 267 3222 or Careem.

Pink Roof: Women’s Taxi
- Part of the Dubai Taxi Company, exclusively for women or women with children, driven by female drivers.
- Book via 800 88088 or the DTC app.

What is a Hala Taxi?

Hala Taxi is a booking platform for RTA taxis via the Careem app, not a separate taxi type. This partnership ensures uniform pricing across all taxis, which have a cream-colored body and a colored roof, with a sticker indicating RTA subcontracting.

Is It Expensive to Take a Taxi in Dubai?

Dubai taxis are cost-effective compared to other global cities. Here’s a breakdown of the rates:

Regular Taxi (Road Pickup):

- 6 a.m. – 11 p.m.: 5 AED starting fare, 1.82 AED per km
- 11 p.m. – 6 a.m.: 5.5 AED starting fare, 1.82 AED per km

Regular Taxi (Booked): 
- 6 a.m. – 11 p.m.: 8 AED starting fare, 1.82 AED per km
- 11 p.m. – 6 a.m.: 9 AED starting fare, 1.82 AED per km

Airport Taxi:

- DXB and DWC Airports: 20 AED starting fare for regular taxis, 25 AED for female or disabled-person taxis.

Day Rental:

- 6 Hours: 500 AED
- 12 Hours: 800 AED

These rates apply as long as you stay within Dubai.