Autonomous taxi services are expanding on Yas Island as Abu Dhabi moves forward with plans to introduce driverless transport across more parts of the emirate.
The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, said the expansion is being carried out with Apollo Go, a subsidiary of China’s Baidu. Autogo, a subsidiary of K2, will serve as the local operator.
Yas Island expansion
The latest step expands the current commercial operations of Level 4 autonomous taxis on Yas Island.
ITC said the move follows the successful completion of testing and operational trials in the area. The service is part of Abu Dhabi’s gradual plan to introduce autonomous mobility while increasing the number of operators involved.
Passengers can request the driverless taxis through the “AutoGo” mobile application, available on Android and Apple app stores.
Future rollout
Authorities said the service will expand later to include Al Reem Island, Al Maryah Island, and Al Saadiyat Island.
ITC said it continues to develop regulatory and operational frameworks to support the rollout of smart mobility solutions across Abu Dhabi, while ensuring safety and operational standards are met.
Hamad Adel Al Afeefi, Executive Director of the Intelligent Transportation Systems Sector at the Integrated Transport Centre, said: “Welcoming a new operator to the commercial operation of autonomous taxis in the region represents a pivotal step within ITC’s efforts to regulate and develop Abu Dhabi’s smart and sustainable mobility ecosystem. This addition reinforces the Emirate’s position as a leading and attractive destination for advanced technologies and reflects the readiness of the supporting regulatory and operational frameworks for the commercial operation of Level 4 autonomous vehicles, in line with the highest standards of safety and efficiency.”
Waleed Alblooshi, Vice President of Strategy at K2, added: “Commencing operations at the start of the year reflects our focus on implementation and delivering sustainable, long-term impact. Offering free rides at this stage enables the public to experience autonomous mobility as a practical option for everyday life and lays the foundation for the next phase of expansion and organised commercial operations.”
The expansion forms part of Abu Dhabi’s wider effort to build a smart and sustainable transport system and accelerate the use of advanced technologies in public mobility.
