Dubai taxis return over AED 2m in lost cash, 35,000 devices in 2025

DUBAI: More than AED 2 million (around Rs152.4 million) in cash, about 35,000 electronic devices and nearly 3,000 passports were recovered from taxis in Dubai last year, the Roads and Transport Authority said after handling over 104,000 lost-property reports across the emirate.

The reports were processed by the RTA’s Lost and Found Team at its Call Centre, which works in coordination with taxi companies and drivers to trace and return belongings left behind by passengers.

Officials said the system involves verifying trip details, tracking vehicle movements and directly contacting drivers, with most items recovered and owners informed within two hours of a report being filed.

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According to the RTA, commonly recovered items included more than AED 2 million in cash, around 35,000 smartphones, laptops and tablets, nearly 3,000 passports and official documents, as well as jewellery and other valuable personal belongings.

The Call Centre operates in multiple languages, including Arabic, English, Urdu, Hindi, Filipino, French, Chinese and Russian, making the service accessible to Dubai’s diverse population and the large Pakistani driver community in the taxi sector.

Authorities said many drivers of taxis showed exceptional honesty by promptly handing in lost items, ensuring their safe return to owners. Pakistani taxi drivers, who make up a significant portion of Dubai’s transport workforce, were particularly praised for their cooperation and integrity, based on passenger feedback and industry assessments.