Driverless Robotaxi Trial Begins In Abu Dhabi

Fully driverless robotaxi trial operations have begun in Abu Dhabi. The announcement was made by Chinese firm WeRide. A fleet of WeRide’s Robotaxis will be piloted on public roads without a safety driver starting this quarter. The company will also be extending its Robotaxi service coverage to Al Maryah Island and Al Reem Island. The UAE has made notable progress in autonomous mobility and advanced innovations in self-driving vehicles.

The expansion adds to WeRide’s existing service, which has been serving Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, and routes connecting to Zayed International Airport since 2021. The company noted that commercial driverless rides and additional service areas will be introduced progressively from summer 2025, subject to regulatory approval. WeRide received the UAE’s first and only national licence for self-driving vehicles, authorising testing and operation of its autonomous vehicles on public roads nationwide, in July 2023.