Abu Dhabi has taken a pioneering step in smart mobility with the launch of the Middle East’s first fleet of fully autonomous taxis on public roads, in partnership with China’s WeRide, on May 16, 2025. This groundbreaking achievement signals a major shift toward a future shaped by innovation and intelligent urban transport technologies.
Deploying vehicles without human drivers marks a significant milestone in the city’s readiness to integrate autonomous driving solutions into real world environments. The fleet is expected to begin operations across the capital during the second quarter of the year, relying entirely on intelligent systems to navigate public roads. This advancement reflects progress in artificial intelligence and the seamless integration of software with high precision sensors. It also underscores Abu Dhabi’s commitment to building a smart, safe, and sustainable transportation ecosystem that enhances quality of life and minimizes environmental impact.
Expansion into Key Districts Supporting Urban Mobility
WeRide has announced plans to expand its smart fleet operations to include Al Maryah and Al Reem Islands, two of Abu Dhabi’s most dynamic and strategically important districts. Al Maryah Island is home to major corporate headquarters and leading financial institutions, including the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), making it a vital business hub in the emirate. Al Reem Island, with its high population density and modern residential developments, presents an ideal setting for implementing large scale intelligent mobility solutions.
By extending its network to include these areas, WeRide strengthens its presence in the capital alongside its existing operations on Saadiyat and Yas Islands, as well as key routes to and from Zayed International Airport. This creates a robust service network that caters to a wide range of users, from residents and commuters to tourists and professionals.
This expansion is important not only from an operational standpoint but also serves as a testament to Abu Dhabi’s leadership in integrating advanced AI driven technologies within its infrastructure. It lays the groundwork for the next phase of commercial deployment, aligning with the global shift toward fully automated and intelligent transportation ecosystems.
UAE Strengthens Global Position in Autonomous Driving Tech
Since July 2023, the UAE has reinforced its role as a global leader in autonomous driving by granting WeRide the world’s first national level license for all types of autonomous vehicles. This license permits operations across the country’s public road network, highlighting the UAE’s forward thinking legislative framework that fosters innovation and supports the testing and deployment of future mobility technologies.
In September 2024, WeRide entered into a strategic partnership with Uber, culminating in the launch of the first public robotaxi service in Abu Dhabi by December of that year. This collaboration led to the establishment of one of the largest fleets of autonomous vehicles outside China and the United States, laying a strong foundation for full commercial deployment.
The company plans to begin offering its commercial services in the summer of 2025, following final regulatory approvals, while expanding operations to include more key districts of the capital. This marks a major step forward in integrating smart mobility solutions and broadening the everyday use of autonomous driving.
This expansion presents significant investment opportunities, as it is likely to attract fresh capital into the UAE’s automated transport sector. It further strengthens the country's leadership as a global hub for developing and implementing self driving technology. These initiatives are key to transforming everyday mobility by delivering AI driven services that enhance comfort and safety for both residents and visitors.
My passion for cars began long before my journey into automotive journalism in 2015. Even though I'm originally a pharmacist, the thrill of speed, elegant designs, and roaring engines has always had my heart. Today, I channel this passion by exploring the newest cars and sharing my experiences with fellow car enthusiasts across the GCC.
