RIYADH. The Public Transport Authority has released a set of draft regulations aimed at reshaping how public and airport taxis operate across the Kingdom. The proposals, now open for feedback on the Istitlaa platform, are designed to improve passenger safety, ensure service quality, and modernize the sector.
Key Proposed Changes
- In-Vehicle Advertising: For the first time, taxis may be allowed to display ads inside vehicles. However, placement will be strictly controlled to ensure they do not distract drivers or compromise passenger comfort.
- Driver’s Right to Refuse Service: Taxi drivers will be permitted to refuse rides under nine specific circumstances, including:
- If passengers smoke, eat, or refuse to wear seatbelts.
- When the number of passengers exceeds available seats.
- In cases of aggressive behavior, suspected drug use, or passengers specifying an unknown destination.
- If passengers tamper with vehicle components or fail to observe public etiquette.
- Mandatory Conduct for Drivers: Taxi drivers must follow stricter codes of conduct, such as:
- Running the fare meter from the start of every trip.
- Wearing the approved uniform and maintaining proper personal appearance.
- Keeping vehicles clean and well-maintained.
- Refraining from smoking and respecting passenger privacy.
- Displaying a clear notice inside the vehicle: “If the fare meter is not activated, the journey is considered free.”
- Passenger Rights and Conditions:
- Pets will be permitted, but only if kept in cages.
- Passengers must wear seatbelts throughout the journey.
- Service Boundaries:
- Public taxis will be licensed to operate within their city but may also transport passengers to other cities.
- Airport taxis will be allowed to pick up passengers from airports and take them to other destinations. However, they cannot make return trips from the city back to the airport.
Once approved, these changes are expected to bring greater clarity to passenger rights, enhance driver accountability, and align taxi services with international standards.