Tough challenge from app-based taxis makes traditional drivers feel the heat in Oman

Tough challenge from app-based taxis makes traditional drivers feel the heat in Oman

Muscat – The popularity of app-based taxi services in Oman is transforming the way residents travel, owing to their convenience, safety and affordability.

This shift, however, has left traditional taxi drivers disgruntled as they face stiff competition having lost the monopoly they once enjoyed.

According to the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, currently there are eight app-based taxi services operating in Oman – OTaxi, Tasleem, Ubar, Marhaba, TM DONE, Hala Taxi, Tanweel and Sayidati.

Residents are increasingly opting for these on-demand services, highlighting the benefits of door-to-door transportation, reasonable charges, cleanliness and perceived safety.

Syed al Touqi, an engineer, expressed his satisfaction with app-based taxis, saying, “A few days back my car broke down. I hired a private taxi and had to haggle over the fare. The second day, I did not opt for it and instead booked OTaxi. It was a little expensive but easy, fast and hassle-free. Mobile apps have simplified the process of booking a taxi, offering passengers a newfound convenience that was once unimaginable.”

He believes OTaxi has redefined the concept of taxi services in Oman.

Frequent traveller Ayesha Amri echoed the positive impact of app-based services, welcoming the option of having taxis driven by females and the ease of