What's Happening?
WeRide, a leader in autonomous driving technology, in partnership with Uber, has launched the first commercial Robotaxi service in downtown Abu Dhabi. This marks the Emirate's first deployment of autonomous vehicles in its city center. The service now
covers approximately 70% of Abu Dhabi's core areas, with the fleet size quadrupling since operations began in December 2024. The expansion includes routes between Corniche Road and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, as well as in Khalifa City, Masdar City, and Rabdan. The service is supported by the Integrated Transport Centre and aims to enhance urban connectivity and transport accessibility. WeRide has been a pioneer in the autonomous vehicle sector in Abu Dhabi since 2021 and was the first company in the UAE to receive a national license for self-driving vehicles.
Why It's Important?
The launch of the Robotaxi service in Abu Dhabi is a significant step towards the UAE's vision of smart mobility. It enhances urban connectivity and supports the growth of Abu Dhabi as a tourism hub, with the service connecting high-demand hotel and tourism corridors. The initiative also reflects the UAE's commitment to advancing autonomous vehicle technology, which could lead to reduced traffic congestion and emissions. The partnership between WeRide and Uber highlights the potential for large-scale deployment of autonomous vehicles in the Middle East, setting a precedent for other regions to follow.
What's Next?
WeRide and Uber plan to scale their operations in the Middle East, with a commitment to deploy at least 1,200 Robotaxis across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Riyadh by 2027. The companies are working towards fully driverless operations, with current services including a vehicle specialist on board as part of a phased approach. The expansion of autonomous vehicle services is expected to continue, with further integration into urban transport networks and potential regulatory developments to support this growth.
