Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has honoured 1000 taxi drivers compared to 100 at its annual Dubai Taxi Awards in 2020. The steep increase in the number of honourees reflects the brave and heroic role of taxi drivers under exceptional circumstances during Covid-19 pandemic. The step is a gesture of appreciation of the sacrifices of taxi drivers in performing their daily jobs and serving various community segments. It is also a way of thanking them for adhering to preventive measures against the potential transmission of the virus between riders and drivers.
The decision to increase the number of drivers honoured, illustrates the high regards of RTA’s top management to the heroes of safe journeys and transport ambassadors. It signals an appreciation of drivers’ duties under extremely challenging health conditions that warrant the compliance with equally exceptional preventive measures set by the Ministry of Health and Prevention, and the Dubai Health Authority. The concerted efforts of all parties and compliance with the applicable measures contributed to the success of the national disinfection programme.
The award fosters the sense of social solidarity, praises the efforts of taxi drivers, and motivates them to continue with their services under the prevailing conditions that impact the transport sector and customer needs. While the selection criteria of the Award were adhered to, the scope of beneficiaries increased 10 times, compared to the previous editions.
RTA attaches paramount attention to passenger transport drivers, especially taxi drivers, whose job scope requires the service availability 24/7. The Department also appreciates the challenges currently faced by drivers while doing their duties, and the required preventive health measures. The compliance of all parties would materialise RTA’s vision of Safe and Smooth Transport for All.