Authorities in Dubai, specifically the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), have recently impounded over 220 private cars involved in illegal passenger transport.
Recent Impoundments
This crackdown includes strict penalties such as 24 black points on the driver's record and the confiscation of the vehicle for 30 days.
During recent inspections, a significant number of vehicles were seized. At Dubai Airports (DXB), 90 cars were impounded around Terminals 1, 2, and 3 following joint inspections by the RTA and the General Department of Airport Security. In Hatta, 86 vehicles were confiscated, while an additional 49 cars were seized in the Jebel Ali area.
Coordinated Efforts and Penalties
Efforts to combat illegal passenger transport are being spearheaded by the RTA and the Dubai Police General Headquarters, according to Saeed Al Balooshi, director of passenger transport operations monitoring at the Public Transport Agency. He said that they had worked with the Dubai Police General HQ to check locations around the emirate, paying special attention to those having a track record of criminal activities. Those who advocated for the use of unlicensed vehicles to carry passengers were fined".
The inspections targeted areas known for high instances of illegal passenger transport. Authorities focused on key locations such as airports and specific districts notorious for unlicensed transport activities. The operations aimed to curb the use of private cars for passenger transport without proper authorization and to deter the promotion of such services.
The penalty for those caught includes the impounding of the vehicle for 30 days and the addition of 24 black points to the driver’s record. These measures are part of a broader effort to maintain regulatory standards and ensure the safety and legality of passenger transport services within the emirate.
The RTA's objective is to safeguard the integrity of the transport sector and protect passengers from the risks associated with unlicensed transport services. By enforcing stringent penalties and conducting regular inspections, the RTA aims to eliminate illegal passenger transport and uphold the law.
Dubai's RTA, in collaboration with the Dubai Police, has intensified efforts to combat illegal passenger transport. The recent impoundment of over 220 vehicles underscores the authorities' commitment to maintaining a safe and regulated transport environment. With continued vigilance and coordinated actions, the RTA aims to eradicate unlicensed passenger transport services and ensure compliance with transport regulations in Dubai.
