Dubai: Bolt Adds 6,000 Taxis in Major UAE Expansion
Image: Supplied
Bolt, the global ride-hailing and mobility firm, has made significant strides in the UAE’s bustling transport sector by integrating over 6,000 Dubai Taxi Company (DTC) vehicles into its platform. This major expansion not only reflects Bolt’s ambitions in the emirate but also intensifies competition in the rapidly growing Dhs6 billion taxi and e-hailing market.
A New Era in Transportation
The addition of DTC’s fleet is a key part of the emirate’s efforts to modernize its transportation network. With this rollout, commuters will benefit from a more diverse array of options, including DTC’s specialized People of Determination Taxis and the iconic Pink Taxis, which cater specifically to ladies and families. This initiative aligns with the Dubai government’s goal to convert 80% of taxi bookings to digital channels in the near future.
A Cash Incentive for Commuters
To celebrate this milestone, Bolt is launching a limited-time offer that includes 30% cashback on the first three taxi rides booked through its app. This promotional move aims to quickly attract users and establish a foothold in Dubai’s dynamic mobility landscape.
Strategic Roadmap for DTC
The integration of these vehicles contributes to DTC’s strategic roadmap for 2025–2029. This plan seeks to solidify DTC’s status as the largest taxi operator in the UAE. Ammar Al Braiki, COO of DTC, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership: “The integration of over 6,000 DTC vehicles onto the Bolt app represents a major step toward realizing our vision of creating the UAE’s largest e-hailing platform.” With future aspirations to extend Bolt’s reach beyond Dubai into other emirates, this collaboration indicates a forward-thinking approach.
Enhanced Experience for Users
Bolt’s users in Dubai will enjoy a broader selection of taxis, all accessible through a user-friendly app interface. Key features include real-time tracking, an emergency SOS button, and a driver rating mechanism, which collectively enhance the service quality and safety of rides. “By integrating DTC’s iconic fleet onto the Bolt platform, we are making transportation more accessible, reliable, and seamless for everyone in Dubai,” says GJ Kistemaker, VP of Partner Markets and Business Development at Bolt.
Competitive Edge in the Market
This strategic partnership positions Bolt to better challenge other regional players in the digital mobility space. The competition is heating up as Dubai moves quickly toward building a sustainable, tech-enabled transport infrastructure. With Bolt operating in over 600 cities across 50 countries and boasting more than 200 million users globally, this expansion represents a significant opportunity for both the company and its customers.
DTC’s Robust Operations
DTC, now a public shareholding company, operates a fleet of over 9,500 vehicles and employs more than 18,000 drivers. The company offers a range of services beyond just standard taxis, including VIP limousines, buses, and delivery services. This diverse portfolio ensures that DTC remains a formidable player in the UAE’s transportation sector.
In summary, the integration of DTC’s fleet into Bolt’s app not only marks a pivotal development in the local transport landscape but also exemplifies the growing trends of digitalization and sustainability within the UAE’s mobility sector. With continued innovations and strategic partnerships, the future of transportation in Dubai looks promising and transformative.
