Passengers using the Male’ Taxi Line service can now book rides directly through a dedicated mobile application on Apple devices, with operator MTCC announcing that the long-awaited iOS version is now available for download.
The launch marks a significant step in the development of the state-run taxi service, which was introduced earlier this year to improve accessibility and address long-standing concerns about taxi availability in the Greater Malé Region.
Until now, customers could access the service only by calling the hotline 1655 or through the Male’ Taxi Line web application. Payments were also processed separately through a web-based payment link after the completion of trips.
According to MTCC, the newly launched mobile application streamlines the entire process by allowing customers to book, manage and pay for rides directly through the platform.
Link to download app: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/mal%C3%A9-taxi/id6761259497
New users are required to register through the application before requesting a ride. Customers can then select their pickup and drop-off locations, confirm their journey and choose a preferred payment method.
The app supports multiple payment options, including wallet payments, bank card transactions and a “Scan to Pay” feature that allows customers to settle fares after completing their trip.
One of the key additions is the ability to schedule rides in advance. Users can reserve a vehicle for a future journey, provided the booking is made at least three hours before the intended departure time.
The application also offers a range of customer-focused features, including the ability to contact drivers directly through in-app messaging and calling functions, report items left behind in vehicles, monitor wallet balances and review previous trips.
An SOS emergency feature has also been integrated into the platform, enabling passengers to seek assistance if they encounter safety concerns during a journey.
Customers can additionally submit feedback after each ride, allowing MTCC to monitor service quality and address passenger concerns.
MTCC confirmed that an Android version of the application is currently being finalized and is expected to be released on Google Play in the near future.
The Male’ Taxi Line was launched on April 2 as the Maldives’ first state-operated taxi service, introducing a fleet of 150 environmentally friendly vehicles operating across Malé, Hulhulé and Hulhumalé.
The service was introduced following years of public complaints regarding difficulties in obtaining taxis, particularly during peak hours. Many residents had also expressed frustration over drivers declining short-distance trips within the capital.
When the service was first launched, ride requests could be made through a web application. However, the platform was temporarily withdrawn shortly after launch due to security-related concerns.
As a result, MTCC provided taxi services free of charge while technical issues were addressed. Although the original plan was to offer complimentary rides for one week, the arrangement was extended for more than two weeks as work continued to resolve the problem.
The launch of the dedicated iPhone application is expected to make the service more accessible and convenient for thousands of daily users, while paving the way for the upcoming Android release.
Earlier this month, government officials also noted that demand for the Male’ Taxi service has continued to increase since its introduction, with MTCC previously reporting more than 13,000 trips during the service’s first month of operation.
