In a significant move for Dubai's transport landscape, the Dubai Taxi Company (DTC) has partnered with Bolt to launch a new e-hailing service in the city.
This marks the European ride-hailing network's first venture into the UAE and aims to enhance the digital mobility experience for customers while expanding smart transport services across Dubai.
With this collaboration, the DTC will leverage Bolt’s advanced digital platform to unlock a greater share of the AED 6 billion market for taxis and e-hailing services in Dubai.
It also aligns with the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority's (RTA) goal of transitioning 80 per cent of taxi trips to e-booking in the coming years.
The partnership was officially announced at GITEX Global, where DTC’s CEO Mansoor Alfalasi and Bolt’s Founder & CEO Markus Villig signed the agreement.
They were joined by officials including Erkki Keldo, the Estonian Minister of Economy, and Abdul Mohsen Ibrahim Kalbat, Chairman of Dubai Taxi.
"This landmark strategic partnership brings together DTC’s position as the UAE’s largest fleet owner with over 6,000 taxis and limousines and Bolt’s position as a leading global shared mobility platform. The combined strengths of both companies will create an unparalleled local mobility leader," said Alfalasi.
Villig told ARN News that this partnership will tap into the "massive appetite for on-demand transportation in Dubai." He added that services are expected to go live for customers before the end of this year.