RTA offers housing and medical insurance to taxi drivers

Incentives will include suitable accommodation, medical insurance annual bonuses and increments paid to distinguished drivers.

Engineer Eissa Al Dosari, CEO of RTA Public Transport Agency, said that the RTA is providing suitable accommodation for about 5000 drivers against deduction of Dhs400 per month from each driver, while RTA is paying for the cost of accommodation, electricity & water as well as cleaning & security services.

"Recently RTA hired a new residential complex to accommodate 2800 drivers in addition to the accommodation unit at Dubai Taxi Agency site; which accommodates around 3200 drivers. Provision of accommodation covers all Dubai Taxi drivers, including new recruits who have yet to take up positions at the Agency.

"Among the benefits provided by the RTA to cabdrivers is the medical insurance system. Drivers used to have medical treatment in a small clinic attached to the Agency. However, today they are privileged with health insurance provided in about 25 hospitals and clinics against a monthly deduction of only Dhs42.

Provision of this service underscores RTA keen attention to provide good healthcare to drivers who are viewed as partners of the RTA in achieving success and providing the best of services to taxi users.

"This day RTA has paid the bonus to 3669 drivers who have spent one year in the Agency. Total amount paid as bonuses, which amounts to about Dhs4m dirham, has been distributed to drivers serving on commission contracts, airport taxi drivers, and ladies taxi drivers.

Taxi driver who obtain "Excellent" rating has received Dhs2000, a driver with "Very Good" rating got Dhs1500 and a driver with a "Good" rating was paid Dhs1000.

In addition to the annual bonuses, RTA is rewarding & honouring distinguished drivers, depending on a number of indicators; such as clean traffic violations, accident-free record, high revenues, good keeping and order of vehicle, good-looking appearance, courtesy in dealing with passenger, achieving maximum number of trips, and carrying out orders of Booking & Distribution Section" said Al Dosari.

The CEO of RTA Public Transport Agency commented on the complaints of some drivers that the Agency is recording violations against them by saying: "Dubai Taxi Agency has acquainted all taxi drivers with the General Quality Contravention Code, before signing job contracts, and all drivers signed up their commitments with the Code.

At the time of drawing up this Code, every consideration was taken to safeguard the rights of drivers & passengers. The driver is entitled to submit a grievance against the offence reported against him, and the Investigation & Control Unit would respond within 5 days.

Dubai Taxi Agency has formed a Drivers Council with members from drivers themselves. This Council addresses all needs & requirements of drivers and make suggestions and ideas that can boost our performance. RTA is paying monthly rewards to these members.