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Sharjah Launches First Digital Taxi Service With Yango App, 500 Vehicles In Trial Phase

Sharjah Launches First Digital Taxi Service With Yango App, 500 Vehicles In Trial Phase

Gulf Insider28-02-2025

Sharjah Asset Management, the investment arm of the Government of Sharjah, announced the trial launch of the first city taxi booking service in the emirate, in partnership with Yango Group.
This new service, facilitated through the Yango app, aims at advancing the transportation sector in Sharjah, and providing safe, fast and convenient services to users.
The Yango app, available for free on iOS and Android in multiple languages including Arabic and English, allows users to book taxis by setting their destination.
With real-time geolocation, the app efficiently connects passengers to the nearest available vehicle, ensuring a quick and hassle-free experience.
Waleed Al Sayegh, Group CEO, said the trial launch of the app reflects Sharjah Asset Management's keenness to adopt technology-driven solutions to build a sustainable, connected, effective and future-ready transportation system.
'We are dedicated to leveraging impactful partnerships to drive sustainable growth in the emirate through strategic investments and innovative projects that support economic diversification and growth,' he said.
Khalid Al Kindi, the General Manager of Sharjah Taxi, said the initiative is a major step in supporting the local economy of the Emirate and providing a seamless, hassle-free experience for Sharjah citizens and residents.
'The trial phase of the launch includes 500 city taxis provided by Sharjah Taxi operating across the emirate starting from February 25,' he said.
Islam Abdul Karim, Regional Head of Yango Middle East, said the company is proud to collaborate with Sharjah Asset Management on this transformative initiative.
'Our aim is that this service will become the foundation for future transportation in Sharjah, helping to create a more connected, accessible city,' he said.

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