American Express payments in Dubai taxis are now a reality for thousands of residents and tourists, thanks to a groundbreaking development by American Express Middle East (AEME) and Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). As of July 1, 2025, over 13,000 taxis operated by RTA-licensed franchise companies, including National Taxi, Arabia Taxi, Kabi Taxi, Dubai Taxi Corporation, and Metro Taxi, now accept American Express cards for fare payments.
This marks a major leap forward in modernizing the taxi experience in Dubai, offering more flexibility and payment options for passengers.
A Milestone for American Express in the UAE
This new initiative by American Express Middle East aims to expand acceptance and ease of use for its card members, both local and international. The partnership with franchised taxi companies underscores American Express’ broader vision of improving payment accessibility across high-demand sectors in the UAE.
Enhancing Accessibility Across Dubai’s Transportation Sector
The inclusion of American Express payments in Dubai taxis not only benefits American Express Card Members but also aligns with Dubai’s commitment to smart mobility and digital transformation. With this step, American Express cardholders can now travel more conveniently while enjoying a seamless, cashless payment experience in the city’s taxi network.
What This Means for Card Members
Graziela Martins, Country Head UAE and VP Merchant Business MENA at AEME, emphasized the significance of the collaboration. She stated, “Our agreement with Franchise companies licensed by Dubai RTA is a major step in our commitment to increasing the number of places that accept American Express payments in Dubai taxis. It enables these taxi companies to welcome more American Express Card Members from across the globe, offering greater payment flexibility and convenience.”
This move also demonstrates AEME’s commitment to supporting businesses in expanding their customer base by embracing modern payment solutions.
The RTA’s Endorsement of Payment Expansion
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has welcomed the development with open arms. Mr. Khaled Al Awadhi, Director of Transportation Systems at the RTA’s Public Transport Agency, remarked, “We welcome initiatives that expand payment options in taxis, contributing to an enhanced customer experience. Now, users of Dubai’s taxis can easily pay using their American Express cards, meeting the growing demand among residents, businesses, and tourists.”
The new payment integration is expected to encourage more people to use taxis in Dubai, knowing that they can pay using a method they trust.
Driving Innovation in the UAE’s Transport Sector
This partnership marks a new chapter in the evolution of Dubai’s public transportation. The integration of American Express payments in Dubai taxis reinforces the emirate’s global standing as a city that embraces innovation and smart solutions in every aspect of daily life.
Global Expansion: A Bigger Picture
Since 2017, American Express has tripled its number of accepting merchants worldwide. As of now, the brand is accepted at more than 89 million merchant locations globally. This rapid expansion includes major advancements in the Middle East, with the UAE serving as a key hub.
How to Pay with American Express in Dubai Taxis
Passengers wishing to use their American Express card simply need to request a taxi from any of the RTA-licensed franchise companies. All taxis have been upgraded with payment terminals that accept major card types, including American Express.
Here’s how to pay:
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Ride in a participating taxi – National Taxi, Dubai Taxi Corporation, Metro Taxi, Arabia Taxi, or Kabi Taxi.
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Inform the driver if you intend to pay by card.
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Tap or insert your American Express card at the end of the trip.
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Collect your receipt and continue your journey hassle-free.
This process offers ease and comfort for business travelers, tourists, and residents who prefer digital payments.
Why This Move Matters
Empowering Businesses and Enhancing Customer Loyalty
The acceptance of American Express payments in Dubai taxis empowers local transportation businesses by expanding their customer reach. For passengers, it strengthens loyalty and satisfaction by removing payment friction.
Supporting Tourism and International Visitors
Dubai is a world-class tourist destination. With thousands of international visitors carrying American Express cards, this move ensures they have a reliable payment method while exploring the city.
American Express Middle East: A Legacy of Growth
Established in the MENA region in 1959, American Express has built a solid reputation as a leading financial services provider. The company opened its first regional office in Bahrain in 1977 and later formed American Express Middle East (AEME) in 1992 through a joint venture with Mawarid Investment Limited.
Today, AEME employs over 600 professionals across the region and provides a wide range of services, from consumer cards to corporate payment solutions. The launch of American Express payments in Dubai taxis is another milestone in its long-standing mission to deliver world-class service to Card Members.
Commitment to the Future of Payment Technology
This new agreement highlights American Express’ strategic commitment to digital payment innovation in the UAE and the wider MENA region. By ensuring that American Express payments in Dubai taxis are easily accessible, AEME positions itself at the forefront of smart mobility trends.
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Image description: A Dubai taxi with a passenger paying using an American Express card – Alt text: American Express payments in Dubai taxis
Conclusion
The introduction of American Express payments in Dubai taxis is a transformative step toward greater financial flexibility and improved transportation experiences in the UAE. It enhances customer satisfaction, aligns with Dubai’s digital transformation goals, and showcases American Express’ ongoing dedication to expanding its payment network across the region.
Whether you’re a resident commuting to work or a tourist exploring the city, you can now travel confidently, knowing your preferred payment method is welcome in more places than ever.
