The Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology (MTCIT) has made the decision to activate specific provisions outlined in the executive regulations for the taxi industry, as per the Land Transport Law established by Royal Decree 10/2016.
The Ministry has laid down certain criteria for practicing taxi activity, which include the following:
- A light driving license must be at least 3 years old from the date of issuance.
- Operators in the private sector must have a monthly salary not exceeding RO600.
- The age of taxi drivers should range from a minimum of 21 years to a maximum of 60 years. Extensions of up to one year can be granted based on a medical report from accredited health institutions, verifying their capability to drive a taxi.
- Taxi vehicles used for operations at airports, ports, and hotels should not exceed 7 years in age from the year of manufacture. In public areas and commercial centers, the age of taxi vehicles should not exceed 10 years from the year of manufacture.
The Ministry emphasizes the importance of taxi operators reconciling their situations by September 1, 2024.
As part of its efforts to enhance the public transportation system, the Ministry has already initiated the first phase of allowing taxi owners at airports to operate under two app-based operators. The second phase, set to commence on November 1, will encompass tourist complexes, hotels, commercial centers, and ports. The third phase, starting on January 1, will extend to white and orange street taxis, which are currently required to operate using a mobile-based meter known as "Aber." This phase will coincide with the launch of the "Aber app," a smart application catering to Orange and White Street taxis