Ajman has made a significant leap towards environmental sustainability, becoming the first emirate in the UAE to have a fully eco-friendly taxi fleet.
The Ajman Public Transport Authority announced that all 2,274 taxis operating in the emirate are now environmentally friendly, including a mix of gas-powered, electric, and hybrid models.
These vehicles, which have collectively completed over 8.5 million trips, are part of a broader initiative to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
This achievement reflects the emirate’s commitment to sustainability and aligns with the UAE’s national transport strategy, which aims to enhance the quality of life while minimizing environmental impact.
Ajman’s efforts are seen as a model for other regions to follow, with a growing focus across the nation on transitioning to greener forms of transportation.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Omar Mohammed Lootah, Director General of Ajman’s Public Transport Authority, stated that this milestone was achieved ahead of schedule thanks to continuous efforts and well-studied plans.
“The authority provided all forms of support to taxi companies to encourage them to join this initiative,” Lootah said.
The transport authority’s move towards eco-friendly transportation has been supported by policies encouraging the adoption of modern, energy-efficient technologies in the emirate.
Ajman first introduced hybrid vehicles into its taxi fleet in 2015, marking the beginning of its journey toward environmental responsibility.
Over the years, the emirate continued to strengthen its taxi network with green technology, and in 2022, electric vehicles were added to the fleet.
These vehicles have since proven their worth, demonstrating both fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
Support for Taxi Companies
The Ajman Public Transport Authority has been instrumental in promoting this shift by offering financial and logistical support to local taxi companies.
These companies were encouraged to adopt greener technologies and modernize their fleets. This support not only helped the companies lower their operational costs but also contributed significantly to the reduction of carbon emissions in the emirate.
Lootah highlighted that this eco-friendly initiative is not just about replacing vehicles but also about positioning Ajman as a leader in sustainable transportation.
He stressed that the emirate’s embrace of electric and hybrid vehicles was part of a broader goal to achieve leadership in transportation at the regional level.
Aligning with the UAE’s Vision
Ajman’s dedication to environmental conservation aligns closely with the UAE’s overall goals for sustainability.
The UAE has made strides in adopting green technologies across various sectors, including transportation, as part of its national vision to build a sustainable society for future generations.
This approach highlights the wise leadership’s focus on creating a high quality of life while minimizing environmental impact.
Lootah emphasized that the integration of electric and self-driving vehicles into Ajman’s transport sector is a crucial step in the emirate’s future vision.
By embracing these technologies, Ajman is positioning itself as a leader in innovative and sustainable transportation solutions, setting an example for the wider region.
As the UAE continues to push forward with its sustainability agenda, Ajman’s efforts demonstrate the role that local governments can play in achieving national environmental goals.
The emirate’s fully eco-friendly taxi fleet is a key part of this movement, and its success offers a blueprint for other regions aiming to reduce their carbon footprints.