RTA guidelines now allow for up to four passengers to travel in Hala (Dubai Taxi) Vans, bookable on the Careem app.

Hala, the joint venture between the RTA and Careem, has on Thursday announced that in line with RTA guidelines, four passengers will be allowed to travel in Hala (Dubai Taxi) vans booked on the Careem app. Previously, all taxi travel had been restricted to two passengers per vehicle.

Due to the two rows of passenger seating present in Hala Van taxis, four passengers can sit two to a row, to maintain social distancing. The price for the van service is identical to the price for a regular taxi.

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With limited Dubai Taxi vans available for street hail in the city, booking on the Careem app allows riders to secure their ride from the comfort of their homes, and see their waiting time and fare upfront. Average arrival times for Hala Vans currently sit at 6 minutes.

Clemence Dutertre, CEO of Hala, said: "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.”