First-ever driverless Uber launched in UAE

Uber has unveiled its first-ever international driverless taxi service in Abu Dhabi, powered by China's autonomous tech leader WeRide. This landmark launch marks a major step for the ride-hailing giant as it expands its self-driving technology beyond U.S. borders for the first time, according to a report by WAM.

Where to ride

The service currently operates in specific areas of Abu Dhabi, including Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and routes connecting to Zayed International Airport. Expansion plans are already in place to roll out the service to other parts of the emirate.

Abu Dhabi’s Tawasul Transport will oversee the operation of WeRide’s self-driving fleet on the Uber platform, with support from the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC).

How to ride Uber robotaxi

Riders using UberX or Uber Comfort can opt to ride in a WeRide autonomous vehicle if their route falls within the designated service area. Opting in through the Ride Preferences section in the Uber app increases the likelihood of being matched with a robotaxi.

Trips will be charged at standard UberX or Uber Comfort rates, with upfront pricing displayed in the app. Once a WeRide vehicle is dispatched, riders can unlock and start their journey directly from the Uber app, offering a seamless user experience.

Safety first

To ensure passenger and pedestrian safety, a safety operator will accompany each vehicle during the initial phase. This phase lays the groundwork for the full commercial rollout of driverless taxis in 2025.

The launch underscores Abu Dhabi’s commitment to positioning itself as a global hub for autonomous and sustainable mobility. WeRide, which secured the UAE’s first national license for self-driving vehicles in July 2023, already operates the largest robotaxi fleet in the country through its TXAI app.

Badr Al-Olama, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, called the service a tangible step toward the future of transportation:

"This initiative highlights Abu Dhabi's commitment, under the guidance of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council, to advance sustainable mobility solutions. With every element of the Smart and Autonomous Vehicles ecosystem primed to integrate this new service, Abu Dhabi continues to reinforce its status as a global leader for autonomous, sustainable mobility solutions."