Muscat – A female taxi service, to be operated by female drivers only, will be launched on a trial basis in Muscat governorate from January 20, 2022, according to Harith al Maqbali, CEO of Otaxi.

On Thursday , the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) issued a notice on the decision taken with the objective of improving public transport and boosting commercial activities in the governorate.

MTCIT has granted a licence for the female taxi service for the Otaxi app.

“A female taxi service is expected to benefit female passengers, students and children,” an MTCIT official said.

Started in 2018, Otaxi saw success in the first two years of operations but was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Speaking to Muscat Daily, Harith al Maqbali, CEO of Otaxi, said, “The launch of the service in Muscat will be followed by the rest of the governorates.”

He added, “We chose nine Omani women who will drive nine cars in the first stage. They are well trained to work in all conditions. Working hours will start from 6am to 10pm in the pilot phase, but it will be around the clock in the near future. The decision is very important because it will create many jobs for jobseekers.”

According to Maqbali, the second phase will include the wilayats of Sohar and Salalah, before rolling out across the country.

“The company currently has over 1,800 active drivers spread across all major cities, including Muscat, Sur, Nizwa, Sohar and Salalah.”

Maqbali also revealed that the company has been permitted to offer its ride-hailing service in private cars in Masirah and Halaniyat Islands, too. “We intend to launch services there in the second quarter of 2022.”

Many citizens hailed the decision. Zahra al Balushi said, “The decision is very good because I can deal with an Omani women driver with ease and confidence. I can send my boys and girls to school with them without fear.”

Fatima al Barwani hailed the fact that the decision will create many job opportunities for Omani women and help activate the economy.

According to Ahmed al Balushi, the decision has come at the right time and will solve many problems. “I can now work without worrying about my children or my wife when they need transportation. They will be in safe hands.”