Talks to bring a cheaper Uber ride service to Dubai have been 'positive' says company

Uber has met with RTA to discuss affordable transport in line with the city's vision for the future

Uber currently has to keep its UAE rates at least 30 per cent above those of traditional taxis under rules set by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority. Ravindranath K / The National
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Uber has described as "positive" efforts to bring a more affordable version of its service to Dubai.

The company has been in talks with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to introduce cheaper transport as part of the city's Dubai Plan 2021.

A spokesman said: “Uber is an integral part of Dubai’s infrastructure and we have been in positive conversations with the RTA on how we can continue to work towards an integrated and sustainable transport solution for the city.

At Uber we believe more affordable transportation will better connect cities by complementing public transport and providing more access to neighborhoods further away from city centres. The pilot we are currently running for UberX is proving that is the case," the company said.

Uber recently conducted a three month trial of uberX, which offers lower fares and uses less expensive vehicles. Under the terms of its currently licence with the RTA, Uber had been required to offer fares that are at least 30 per cent higher than regular taxis.

The company spokesman said: "As Dubai grows, we want to be a partner in reducing congestion and our vision for mobility also perfectly aligns with the city’s ambitions towards becoming one of the smartest cities in line with Vision 2021.

"It is our aim to continue developing our technology to benefit our riders and driver partners while helping Dubai move more efficiently.”