Dubai is launching trials of driverless taxis with Uber and WeRide later this year

Oracle
16 July 2025
1.41 pm

Dubai is taking the next step in its smart mobility strategy with the imminent launch of trials for driverless taxis. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Uber Technologies, Inc. and WeRide, one of the world’s leading companies in autonomous driving, to launch pilot schemes as early as this year. This initiative marks a major step towards the roll-out of fully autonomous transport services in the emirate.

A decisive step towards smart mobility

Initially, these autonomous vehicles will operate with a safety driver on board and will be available via the Uber app. The aim is to assess their performance in real-world conditions ahead of a large-scale commercial roll-out.

These trials are part of Dubai’s commitment to adopting innovative and sustainable transport solutions. The emirate aims to make autonomous vehicles a key component of its urban transport system, with a view to reducing traffic congestion, improving road safety and minimising the environmental impact.

A strategic partnership with global players

By partnering with Uber, a pioneer in mobility platforms, and to WeRide, renowned for its cutting-edge autonomous driving technologies, Dubai is establishing itself as a key player in the field of robotaxis. This collaboration aims to build on the expertise of these companies to ensure reliable and secure services.

The presence of a safety driver on board during the trials will enable the journeys to be monitored and essential data to be collected in order to optimise the vehicles’ performance prior to their full-scale deployment.

Towards the commercial roll-out of robotaxis in 2026

These trials represent a first step towards the official introduction of fully autonomous taxis in Dubai. According to the RTA, the commercial roll-out is scheduled for 2026, a milestone that forms part of the emirate’s ambitious vision: to make 25 % of all autonomous journeys by 2030.

By adopting this technology, Dubai aims not only to improve the quality of life of its residents, but also to strengthen its status as a pioneering city in the field of smart transport.

Conclusion

With these trials of driverless taxis, Dubai is reaffirming its commitment to becoming a global leader in autonomous mobility. By partnering with leading technology firms and aiming for full-scale deployment by 2026, the emirate is accelerating its transition towards a safer, more efficient and sustainable transport system. This initiative is fully in line with Dubai’s strategic vision, which aims to make the city a a leader in mobility solutions for the future.