Abu Dhabi Launches Fully Autonomous Robotaxi Service in Partnership with WeRide and Uber
After extensive trials lasting over a year, WeRide, a leader in autonomous vehicle technology, has teamed up with Uber to introduce Abu Dhabi’s first commercial robotaxi service operating entirely without human safety drivers. this initiative represents a notable leap forward for driverless transportation within the Middle East.
accessing Driverless Rides on Yas Island
The self-driving robotaxis are now accessible to the public,initially covering routes throughout Yas Island-a renowned leisure destination famous for hosting the Abu Dhabi grand Prix Formula 1 race. Passengers can request these vehicles via Uber’s app by choosing ride options such as Uber Comfort or UberX,which may dispatch a WeRide-operated autonomous car. For those specifically seeking an entirely driverless experience, an “Autonomous” selection is available to improve matching chances with these vehicles.
Operational Synergy and Fleet Coordination
The collaboration includes local fleet operator Tawasul managing day-to-day operations to ensure smooth service delivery. This approach mirrors Uber’s existing model in Austin, Texas, where it partners with Waymo to integrate autonomous rides seamlessly into its platform.
regulatory Approval Paves Way for Expansion
This groundbreaking launch follows WeRide securing a federal license from UAE authorities permitting fully driverless commercial robotaxi services. Ambitious plans are underway to extend coverage beyond Yas Island into central Abu Dhabi neighborhoods as part of broader growth objectives.
“Introducing this fully autonomous offering outside traditional hubs like the U.S. and China marks an remarkable milestone in global transportation,” remarked Sarfraz Maredia, head of autonomous mobility at Uber.
A Rapidly Expanding Global Autonomous Network
In recent years, Uber has established partnerships with over 20 companies specializing in self-driving technologies worldwide-including regions across North America, europe, and the Middle East-aiming not only at passenger transport but also expanding into delivery logistics and freight trucking sectors.
- This year alone featured new collaborations with firms such as May Mobility (Michigan), Volkswagen (developing electric microbus robotaxis), alongside Chinese innovators Momenta and Pony.ai.
- A premium robotaxi project utilizing Lucid Gravity suvs outfitted by San Francisco-based startup Nuro further highlights this diversification within urban mobility solutions.
Global Commercial Deployments gain Traction
the practical implementation of these technologies is accelerating: earlier this year saw accomplished launches like the partnership between Uber and waymo operating driverless taxis in Austin; now Abu Dhabi joins this growing list through cooperation between Uber and WeRide-with Dubai also preparing similar technology-driven transit services soon.
The Future Vision: Scaling Autonomous Fleets Across Continents
Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi envisions that by late 2026 there will be active deployments featuring autonomous vehicles on its platform across at least ten major metropolitan areas globally. The joint strategy between WeRide and Uber aims to expand their presence across fifteen cities spanning Europe and Middle eastern markets-possibly increasing their current regional fleet from around 150 robotaxis today into several thousands over time.
