7 hours Ago
Dubai: Oman is moving to overhaul its taxi sector, with authorities setting an April 1 deadline for all traditional taxis to register with licensed ride-hailing companies, the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology (MTCIT) announced. The mandate, aimed at improving fare transparency and streamlining public transport services, is seen as a significant shift for the country’s iconic orange and white taxis, which have long operated independently. Under the new rules, all taxis must operate through one of eight approved mobile platforms, including OTaxi, Tasleem, Marhaba, Oman Taxi, Hala, and Taxi Muscat.
“The goal is clear — all taxis must be metered and operate through digital platforms,” said Khamis bin Mohammed Al Shamakhi, Undersecretary for Transport. “We are focused on improving service standards and ensuring fairness for both drivers and passengers.” Deadline extensions The requirement follows multiple deadline extensions, with the original compliance date set for January 1.
The MTCIT said April 1 will be the final cutoff, after which unregistered taxis will not be permitted to operate. The ministry has also outlined eligibility criteria for taxi drivers. Applicants must hold a light vehicle driving license for at least three years, be aged between 21 and 60, and earn no more than RO 600 monthly if employed in the private sector.
Vehicle age limits have been set at seven years for taxis at airports, ports, and hotels, and 10 years for those operating in public and commercial spaces. One-year extensions may be granted for drivers deemed medically fit. According to official data, 28,241 taxis were registered nationwide as of January 2025, with a growing number already operating under app-based systems.
Officials said the transition is not only about efficiency but also about consumer protection, offering passengers consistent pricing, digital receipts, and real-time tracking of rides—features increasingly expected by modern users. The ministry has urged remaining taxi operators to complete the transition quickly, stressing that the reforms are part of a long-term vision to build a smarter, more integrated transport system in line with Oman’s national development goals..
