Ride-hailing firm Careem launches in Ras Al Khaimah

The initiative aims to reduce the number of private cars in the city, said RAK Transport Authority

Ride-hailing businesses across the world have been affected by measures to fight the Covid-19 pandemic. Courtesy: Bloomberg

Ride-hailing firm Careem has launched services in Ras Al Khaimah for the first time as part of a major drive to boost transport links in the emirate.

RAK Transport Authority has signed an agreement with Careem, an app based service, which already has a strong presence in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

The taxi and e-limousine service is in its pilot phase and is expected to be rolled out across the emirate by mid-August.

Hala taxis can be booked through the Careem app.

The authority said the initiative aims to help commuters and reduce the number of private cars in the city.

“This step comes from the authority’s commitment to uplift the transport sector and ensure the provision of safe, reliable and smart transport services,” said Ismail Al Balooshi, general manager of the authority.

“It is in line with the authority’s strategy of digital and smart transformation, to keep pace with the global transformation standards in the field of urban transport planning.”

The new service allows passengers to book a taxi using their smartphones, track the ride and pay through a card or Careem credits.

In January, the authority unveiled an ambitious five-year strategic plan that includes rolling out ride-hailing and electric scooters services, new bus stations and additional routes and Abra tours.