RTA Taxi Dubai Fares 2026: Pricing and How to Pay
RTA taxi Dubai fares 2026: updated base rates, per-km charges, airport fees, and all accepted payment methods for tourists.
Current RTA Taxi Base Fares in 2026
Every RTA taxi starts with a flag-fall of AED 12 during normal hours and AED 15 between 10 pm and 6 am. The meter then adds AED 2.50 per kilometre inside Dubai city limits. These rates apply to all standard sedans operated by RTA or its licensed partners.
Airport and Special-Zone Surcharges
Trips starting at Dubai International Airport carry an AED 25 surcharge added automatically to the meter. The same AED 25 fee applies at Al Maktoum International. Trips that cross into Sharjah or Ajman incur an extra AED 20 border charge, while trips to Abu Dhabi add AED 40. All surcharges are displayed on the meter before you leave the rank.
Waiting Time and Peak-Hour Rules
RTA charges AED 0.50 per minute when the taxi is stationary for more than two minutes in traffic or at a request stop. Peak-hour pricing does not apply; the night tariff already covers the busiest evening window. Drivers cannot add extra charges for luggage or card payments.
Accepted Payment Methods
- Cash in UAE dirhams remains universally accepted.
- Contactless cards and Apple Pay or Google Pay are enabled in every RTA taxi via the onboard terminal.
- Nol card tap-and-ride is available on request, but tourists rarely carry one.
- RTA’s own Careem and Dubai Taxi apps let you pre-book and pay through stored cards or Apple Pay before the ride begins.
Quick Fare Examples for Tourists
From Dubai Mall to Burj Al Arab the meter typically shows AED 35-40 in daytime traffic. An airport run to Downtown Dubai runs AED 80-95 once the AED 25 surcharge is added. A late-night trip from JBR to Dubai Marina costs roughly AED 22-25 with the AED 15 flag-fall.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the 2026 RTA taxi flag-fall in Dubai?▾
AED 12 daytime and AED 15 between 10 pm and 6 am for all standard RTA taxis.
How much extra does Dubai Airport add to a taxi fare?▾
RTA adds a fixed AED 25 surcharge to every trip starting at either Dubai airport.
Can I pay by card in Dubai taxis in 2026?▾
Yes, every RTA taxi accepts contactless cards and mobile wallets through the onboard terminal.
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