Al Ijarah Holding has rolled out 80 new blue-roofed taxis in a soft launch over the Eid holidays, with more cars set to hit the streets “very soon,” the Peninsula reports.

The company is the second of three groups that will operate Mowasalat’s taxis on a franchise basis.

Al Million’s maroon-roofed cabs hit Doha in July, and Petro Qatar is expected to enter the market early next year, the newspaper said.

Each franchise can operate a fleet of up to 500 cars. Al Million currently runs 300 taxis, but has said it plans to expand its fleet to 500 next month.

All of the companies must charge the same rates as their all-green counterparts, but will operate separate call centers.*

Given the countless complaints customers in Qatar have about the Karwa experience, the competitors may do well to distinguish themselves with better service.

Meanwhile, illegal taxis continue to thrive in Qatar as the state transportation company’s 2000+ fleet has not been able to keep pace with the growing population.

Thoughts?

*Note: The call center number listed in the Peninsula for the new blue-roofed taxis is incorrect. We’ll update you when we find out the real number. 

Credit: Photo by JCBlackWhite