Private, wheelchair accessible ground transportation (for power wheelchair users and those needing to remain seated in their chair) does exist in Dubai. Although the city’s excellent public transportation system has gotten me just about everywhere I have wanted to go, I have used wheelchair taxis in Dubai on a number of occasions.
I have almost always reserved a Dubai wheelchair taxi at least several hours in advance, so I cannot advise on the wait times for on-demand requests. Each of my drivers have been courteous and spoke English, and the vehicles have been adequately accessible.
Reservations can be made by phone, or through your hotel’s concierge:
Dubai Taxi Corporation
+971 8008 8088
www.dubaitaxi.ae
Fares are based upon the following rate table, which is specific to the adapted taxis:
Starting Fare (6 a.m. to 10 p.m. in Dubai) – 5 AED
Starting Fare (10 p.m. to 6 a.m. in Dubai) – 5.50 AED
Starting Fare (from Dubai International Airport) – 25 AED
Per kilometer – 1.96 AED
Minimum total fare – 10 AED
The adapted taxis are vans, with electric wheelchair lifts (rear entry). Securement straps are available in the back and tie wheelchairs down to the floor. A seatbelt has also been made available to me.
Taxis can be reserved in advance, or requested on demand with a phone call. Travelers needing an accessible taxi at the airport can speak to a taxi attendant. Wait times will vary, and I cannot estimate an “average” time due to my limited experience with on-demand taxi requests.
If you have traveled to Dubai and used the accessible cabs, please share your experience in the comments below.
