Coronavirus: Dubai allows four passengers in van taxis

Four passengers will now be allowed to travel in Hala vans in Dubai, in an easing of Covid-19 measures. Courtesy: Hala

Up to four passengers can now travel together in Dubai taxi vans booked using the Careem app.

The emirate's Road and Transport Authority said the change would be in place for Hala vans from Thursday. Hala is the joint venture between the RTA and Careem.

Previously, the number of passengers for all taxi travel was limited to two per vehicle as part of safety measures designed to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

“As ever, we remain committed to using technology to unlock easy movement around Dubai. We are pleased to announce this positive move and hope it can make travel that little bit simpler for those of our riders who need to travel in groups, whether that be friends or families,” said Clemence Dutertre, chief executive of Hala.

The increase in passengers was possible because the vans have two rows of seating. Four passengers can sit two to a row, to maintain social distancing. The price for the van service is the same as that for a regular taxi.

A limited number of Dubai Taxi Vans are available for street hail so booking using the app is recommended.