Uber, WeRide, and Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) have formed a strategic partnership to introduce autonomous vehicles (AVs) in Dubai, aiming to integrate self-driving technology into the city’s transportation system.
The initiative aligns with Dubai’s Self-Driving Transport Strategy, which targets transforming 25% of all journeys into autonomous trips by 2030. WeRide serves as Uber’s initial technology partner, leveraging its experience from a successful commercial robotaxi launch in Abu Dhabi with Uber in December 2024.
This follows a phased approach: testing with safety drivers is set to begin in 2025, with plans for a fully driverless commercial launch in 2026. The RTA has been conducting autonomous mobility trials since 2016, and this collaboration marks a significant step in scaling those efforts, supported by Dubai’s progressive regulatory environment and commitment to smart city innovation.
The transition to a fully driverless service is targeted for 2026, roughly a year from now, assuming trials proceed smoothly and safety standards are met.
Given WeRide’s proven track record in Abu Dhabi and Uber’s experience with AVs in other markets, this timeline appears feasible, though it hinges on successful testing and public acceptance. Dubai’s ambitious goal and the partners’ combined expertise suggest this could reshape urban mobility in the city by mid-decade.
Self-Driving Vehicles in Dubai
This collaboration builds on Uber’s global strategy to partner with leading AV developers and WeRide’s established presence in the UAE, where it became the first company to secure a national license for self-driving vehicles on public roads in July 2023.The initiative aligns with Dubai’s Self-Driving Transport Strategy, which targets transforming 25% of all journeys into autonomous trips by 2030. WeRide serves as Uber’s initial technology partner, leveraging its experience from a successful commercial robotaxi launch in Abu Dhabi with Uber in December 2024.
Self-Driving vehicle pilot program in Dubai
The partnership involves pilot programs where Uber’s platform will match riders with WeRide’s autonomous vehicles, focusing on a seamless user experience while exploring data insights, safety protocols, and regulatory frameworks.This follows a phased approach: testing with safety drivers is set to begin in 2025, with plans for a fully driverless commercial launch in 2026. The RTA has been conducting autonomous mobility trials since 2016, and this collaboration marks a significant step in scaling those efforts, supported by Dubai’s progressive regulatory environment and commitment to smart city innovation.
When will Dubai have self-driving vehicles?
As for how soon this could become a reality, the timeline is already in motion. Pilot operations with safety drivers are scheduled to start this year (2025), meaning initial deployments could be seen within months, depending on logistical and regulatory progress.The transition to a fully driverless service is targeted for 2026, roughly a year from now, assuming trials proceed smoothly and safety standards are met.
Given WeRide’s proven track record in Abu Dhabi and Uber’s experience with AVs in other markets, this timeline appears feasible, though it hinges on successful testing and public acceptance. Dubai’s ambitious goal and the partners’ combined expertise suggest this could reshape urban mobility in the city by mid-decade.
