In the UAE, the days of standing by the roadside to hail a taxi are largely over. Although this method remains an option, it's common for taxi drivers to ignore potential passengers as they are often en route to pre-booked fares. Taxi ranks are still visible at key locations such as malls, airports, hotels, and major tourist attractions, but for most areas across the seven emirates, it's advisable to book a taxi through online platforms or by phone. Booking methods differ between emirates; for instance, residents of Dubai are accustomed to using a specific app, whereas those in Abu Dhabi might need to download a different app or call a dedicated hotline. Additionally, taxi fares vary across the country.

Here's a detailed guide for each emirate:

Abu Dhabi
To secure a taxi in the UAE's capital, you have two options: Call 600535353 and follow the automated instructions, though this method lacks real-time tracking. Alternatively, download the Abu Dhabi Taxi app, which allows you to track your ride, estimate fares, and select the type of taxi you need, whether standard, family, seven-seater, or accessible.

Taxi fares in Abu Dhabi are time-dependent. For standard silver taxis, rates are as follows:
From 6am to 10pm: Flag-down rate is Dh5, with Dh1.82 per km and 50 fils per waiting minute. The minimum fare is Dh12, plus a Dh4 booking fee.
From 10pm to 6am: The flag-down rate increases to Dh5.50, with the same per km and waiting charges, and a Dh5 booking fee.
Airport taxis have higher rates, with a Dh20 flag-down rate and the same per km and waiting charges, plus booking fees of Dh4 and Dh5 respectively.

Dubai
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai is committed to digitizing taxi services, partnering with Careem for app-based bookings. To book a taxi, download the Careem app and select the 'Hala Taxi' option for various ride choices.

Taxi fares in Dubai start at Dh12, potentially rising to Dh20 in certain areas during major events due to dynamic pricing.

Sharjah
Taxis are readily available in some areas of Sharjah, but for less frequent spots, call 600525252 or use the RTA Sharjah app or website, though online bookings require registration.

Taxi fares in Sharjah have a minimum of Dh14, with Dh1.62 per km, though these rates can fluctuate with fuel prices.

Ajman
In Ajman, taxi bookings can be made by calling 600599997 or through the Route Ajman app. Fares start at Dh13, with per km charges adjusted monthly based on fuel prices.

Ras Al Khaimah
Taxi services in RAK are more affordable, with rates nearly half those in Dubai. Book through the Sayr app, which offers the following rates:
From 6am to 9.59pm: Dh4 flag-down rate.
From 10pm to 5.59am: Dh5 flag-down rate.
For trips to other emirates: Dh15 flag-down rate.
For every 595 meters: Dh1.
For every 1km: Dh1.88.
Waiting charge after the first five minutes: 50 fils per minute.
Minimum fare: Dh6.
Service fees per trip: Dh2.