The National Taxi in Dubai. ARCHIVE

Dubai Taxi Company (DTC) is in the process of acquiring 100 percent of National Taxi LLC in a Dh1.45 billion transaction that will significantly expand its market presence across the UAE. The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals and is expected to be completed in early third quarter of 2026. The deal will be funded through new bank debt facilities, with no new equity issuance required. The final purchase price remains subject to adjustment under the terms of the Sales and Purchase Agreement. National Taxi is one of the UAE’s largest private taxi operators, with a fleet of more than 2,700 vehicles operating across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. Its yellow-roof taxis are a familiar sight across Dubai. Once completed, DTC’s market share in Dubai is expected to rise from 47 percent to approximately 59 percent, while also giving the company an immediate 12 percent share in Abu Dhabi’s taxi market. Dubai Taxi Company Group Chairman Abdul Muhsen Ibrahim Kalbat said the acquisition marks a major milestone for the company, “strengthening our leadership position in Dubai while establishing a meaningful presence in Abu Dhabi.” “This acquisition allows us to expand our platform, enhance scale and position the business for long-term growth,” Kalbat added. DTC Group Chief Executive Officer Mansoor Rahma Alfalasi said the transaction is expected to strengthen financial performance from the first full year of ownership. Toufic Mitri, Managing Director at National Taxi, said DTC submitted the strongest proposal following a competitive international process. “National Taxi has been a prominent taxi operator in Dubai and Abu Dhabi for 26 years. Throughout the past two decades, the company has consistently experienced steady growth, adopted new technologies and received multiple accolades,” Mitri said. “Ultimately, DTC submitted the most compelling proposal, and we are confident that DTC will guide National Taxi through its next phase of development.”

No fare increase expected

There is yet no announced increase in base taxi rates for National Taxi due to the acquisition. Taxi rates in Dubai remain regulated by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), and operators cannot independently increase base fares, booking fees or peak-hour charges. The deal expands DTC’s footprint into Abu Dhabi and increases its overall market share, but it does not alter the fare structures for passengers. ICA/Expat Media
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