Special permit mandated for providing taxi services via apps

The Taxi Regulations were amended today, making it mandatory for taxi centers to obtain a special permit from the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation if they wish to provide taxi services through a mobile application.

In a press release regarding the amendments to the taxi regulations, the Ministry stated that to ensure the safety of passengers, parties wishing to provide taxi services via mobile applications or online portals (those holding a taxi center operating license) must now obtain a special permit from the Ministry.

The Ministry noted that providing digital services under this permit is a means to empower the accountability of the drivers providing the service.

Other changes brought to the regulations include:

The Ministry further stated that if a company provides transportation services, it must now ensure that such activity is included within the company’s mandate.

Furthermore, it will now be mandatory for companies providing taxi services to be registered and obtain permits in accordance with the regulations.

"The main goal of all these changes is to establish a reliable and modern taxi system in the Maldives that benefits both passengers and service providers," the Ministry said.

As preparations continue to launch the government’s taxi line service, efforts have already begun to recruit the necessary drivers. The government decided to enter the taxi business to provide a solution to the difficulties the public faces in obtaining services, despite approximately 1,500 cars being registered for taxi services.

Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen previously stated that 100 cars would initially be introduced into service. He noted that this would bring a positive change and mentioned that these taxis would include small vehicles capable of entering narrow alleys.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has stated that the government’s taxi line service will commence early this year.