Commuters in Abu Dhabi were shocked and frustrated after they learnt last month about the increase in taxi fares.
Residents complained about the almost 43 per cent hike on the meter starting charge – from Dh3.5 to Dh5. With the minimum fare set at Dh12, they said it would dig a hole in their pockets. Flag rates, per-kilometre charges and booking fees have all also increased.
The move is likely to force many to turn their backs on taxis and seek out alternative, more affordable means of transport.
In turn, Abu Dhabi’s transport system would benefit if it improves public transport and allow minibuses and other forms of transportation to operate legally.
We asked 2,987 TaskSpotting users for their opinions on this issue. TaskSpotting describes itself as the region’s only advocate marketing platform and pitches our questions to its app community who typically engage with brands to create content and share feedback.
The majority of our data pool say they used taxis. Some also used unlicensed minibuses. This explains the need to regulate minibuses and private taxis.
More than 70 per cent of respondents said they would benefit from such a move.
