Transport Uber launches driverless operations in Abu Dhabi By Neil Halligan December 6, 2024, 3:26 PM Supplied/Business Wire Uber Technologies and WeRide robotaxi: Abu Dhabi now boasts the largest commercial robotaxi service outside the US and China Partnering with WeRide Robotaxi service Fully driverless by 2025 Ride-hailing giant Uber Technologies and Chinese autonomous vehicle tech company WeRide have launched a commercial driverless taxi service in Abu Dhabi. The service, available on the Uber platform, will be available for trips on Saadiyat Island, Yas Island and routes to and from Zayed International Airport, with plans to expand the operating territory in the future. For the launch phase each autonomous vehicle will have a safety operator in the driver’s seat to ensure safety for riders and pedestrians. The fully driverless service is “planned for later in 2025”, the companies said in a statement. Abu Dhabi plans centre for autonomous vehicle industry What the rise of robotaxi means for your car insurance Dubai key to GM’s $50bn driverless car plans The launch is the largest commercial robotaxi service outside the US and China and the first time autonomous vehicles are available on the Uber platform outside of the US. In July last year WeRide received preliminary approval for operating autonomous vehicles in the UAE. Abu Dhabi has been operating a limited autonomous taxi service on Yas Island. Neighbouring Dubai has been trialling autonomous taxis, with plans to convert 25 percent of total transportation to autonomous by 2030. Register now: It’s easy and free AGBI registered members can access even more of our unique analysis and perspective on business and economics in the Middle East. Why sign uP Exclusive weekly email from our editor-in-chief Personalised weekly emails for your preferred industry sectors Read and download our insight packed white papers Access to our mobile app Prioritised access to live events Register for free Already registered? Sign in I’ll register later Register now: It’s easy and free AGBI registered members can access even more of our unique analysis and perspective on business and economics in the Middle East. Why sign uP Exclusive weekly email from our editor-in-chief Personalised weekly emails for your preferred industry sectors Read and download our insight packed white papers Access to our mobile app Prioritised access to live events Register for free Already registered? Sign in I’ll register later
