Hala, the joint venture between the RTA and Careem, has today announced a redesigned service, aimed at enhancing the health and safety of all areas of taxi travel.

Supported by the RTA’s unparalleled industry knowledge, and by Careem’s first class technology, Hala have implemented a roster of new features, to build on the existing safety features that were introduced at the first sign of Covid.

Strict new measures include upgraded health and hygiene standards for all Captains, who will be required to pass a temperature test before being able to accept a booking, in addition to the existing requirement to wear a mask, utilise hygiene supplies, and keep best practices of hand sanitisation at all times.

Investment in a revamped Captain training programme reinforces existing protocols, with the addition of new measures including the ventilation of the taxi after each ride, and a directive to remain in the driver’s seat at all times, unless a rider specifically requests assistance.

Customers can also expect best in class protection within their ride, with every Hala (Dubai Taxi) undergoing a full and thorough Vital Oxide sanitisation every day, alongside the installation of isolating screens and sanitising materials in every car.

These new standards will be reinforced with the implementation of a host of new product features within the Careem app; the exclusive smart booking platform for Dubai Taxis. In a unique proposition, Hala is leveraging Careem’s Captain facing technology, to ensure all Captains complete a mandatory self-certification before they are able to accept a booking, confirming the strict health and hygiene requirements have been met.

Developing the existing Careem Pay technology, additional in app payment methods will allow all riders to make completely hands-free payment for their ride from the app, removing any need for exchanging cash or using card machines. Whilst a redesigned feedback portal allows for safety related concerns to be relayed instantly.

Clemence Dutertre, CEO of Hala, said: “Our customers’ health and safety is our first priority. That is why we have invested in rethinking the Hala taxi experience entirely, to deliver an upgraded service to protect both our riders and Captains. Building on our existing strict quality of service, we are fortunate to be in a unique position to leverage the latest Careem technology, alongside incredible commitment from the RTA, to implement measures which we believe will set a new standard for safety in taxi travel across the world. Through this redefined Hala journey, we hope we can empower our customers with the full trust and confidence needed to feel secure, as they return to moving across our City.”

For further information, please visit www.halaride.com or follow @hala_ride on Instagram, @halaride on Facebook and @halaride on Twitter.