Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched a pilot public Robotaxi service, now available on the Uber app. This initiative is part of Dubai’s Self-Driving Transport Strategy and is delivered in partnership with autonomous driving technology company WeRide and ride-hailing platform Uber.
Robotaxi service launch
The WeRide Robotaxi can be booked through the Uber app under the “Autonomous” service option. The service currently operates in the Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah areas, popular spots near public beaches. A specialist driver is present onboard during this pilot phase to ensure safety, with plans for a fully driverless service expected in early 2026.
Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO of Public Transport Agency at RTA, said: “WeRide Robotaxi vehicles booked through the Uber app will be available in Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah, two of Dubai’s most prominent areas located near public beaches. Members of the public across all segments of the community can book a WeRide Robotaxi through the Uber app by selecting the ‘Autonomous’ service option.”
He added: “This launch builds on the joint pilot programme between RTA and WeRide, which has, since the partnership announcement in April 2025, undergone successive testing to ensure a smooth transition towards autonomous mobility solutions. The service is currently operating with a specialist driver on board to ensure a safe and reliable experience, paving the way for a fully driverless service in early 2026.”
Industry collaboration
Jennifer Li, CFO and Head of International at WeRide, commented: “Our progress in Dubai is enabled by our autonomous driving technology that has been tested and validated worldwide. We are expanding rapidly across the Middle East and globally, driven by our vision to deploy tens of thousands of Robotaxis by 2030. We are pleased to partner with forward-thinking regulators like RTA, who share a similarly bold commitment to advancing autonomous mobility, and with Uber, whose global platform will help accelerate the adoption of driverless transportation.”
Sarfraz Maredia, Global Head of Autonomous at Uber, said: “As the world’s largest hybrid network of human drivers and AVs, Uber is building the future of transportation, and we are thrilled by the pace of autonomous adoption in the UAE and the Middle East. This launch in Dubai is a testament to our ongoing commitment to the UAE’s vision for the future of mobility and contributes directly to Dubai’s goal of achieving 25% autonomous journeys by 2030.”
Smart mobility growth
The launch underlines Dubai’s role in advancing smart mobility. WeRide currently operates around 150 autonomous vehicles in the Middle East, including over 100 Robotaxis. Both WeRide and Uber plan to expand their operations regionally, aiming to deploy thousands of autonomous vehicles in the coming years.
Dubai’s population now exceeds 4 million residents, driving increasing demand for shared mobility services. In 2024, the city recorded more than 153 million trips across public transport, taxis, and shared mobility platforms. Shared mobility demand grew 28% compared to 2023, supporting the need for innovative and flexible transportation options, including autonomous vehicles.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
