Unlicensed taxi services are common, and they are especially popular among low-income workers. Dubai recognised the problem last year when the Roads and Transportat Authority launched its Saher campaign to crack down on illegal operators. But unlicensed taxis continue to operate, particularly between Dubai and Sharjah, and it is time to consider new ways to approach the problem.
In common with ride-sharing services such as Careem and Uber, these illegal taxis have an unfair advantage over the regulated services that are administered by government departments. First of all, the pricing system is different. The private operators have the freedom to set their own fares, while licensed taxis must charge according to the meter. The vehicles are not subject to regular maintenance and safety checks, and the drivers do not need a special licence. On top of that, there are potential problems involving insurance and liability in the case of an accident.
However, these private services would not exist if there were no demand. For example, it is more convenient for four workers to share an unlicensed taxi from Dubai's Rolla bus station to Al Quoz and pay Dh20 each instead of paying Dh120 for a regular taxi. It may be a little more expensive than a bus ride, but it saves time and allows passengers to get off at their exact destination. Drivers interviewed by The National say they have been operating for many years and have found ways to avoid getting caught. In Sharjah, they have even organised collection boxes to help each other pay fines.
Since it is impractical, if not impossible, to shut down these services, a better option might be to bring them – along with Uber, Careem and their imitators – into the fold through regulation. A new category could be established to cover these services, just as London has separate rules covering minicabs and the official black cabs, and New York has green “boro cabs” that can offer a restricted service in certain areas. Under such a system, the incomes of regular taxi drivers and their owners would be protected while consumers would have more choice.
