WeRide and Uber Debut Autonomous Robotaxi Rides in Dubai, Backed by Ambitious Expansion Targets

Dubai Becomes Testbed for Public Robotaxi Service—Setting Sights on a Fully Driverless 2026 Launch

Autonomous vehicle innovation took a leap forward today as WeRide (NASDAQ:WRD, HKEX: 0800) and Uber (NYSE:UBER), in partnership with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), launched the city’s first public robotaxi service. For the first time, riders can hail a WeRide Robotaxi via the 'Autonomous' option in the Uber app, currently serving popular zones in Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah. These bustling, beach-adjacent areas offer high visibility and easy public access, making them ideal for rolling out autonomous mobility on a larger scale.

Pilot Service Supports Dubai’s Vision of 25% Autonomous Journeys by 2030

This public trial is a milestone in Dubai’s Self-Driving Transport Strategy, which targets 25% of all journeys to be autonomous by 2030. Notably, public transport and ride-hailing have exploded in the city, with 2024 shared mobility trips up 28% year-over-year and a total of 153 million trips logged across transport modes. Dubai’s rapid population growth—now over 4 million residents—only intensifies the need for new transport solutions, positioning the emirate as a leader in next-generation urban mobility.

Transitioning Toward Full Autonomy—With Commercial Launch Targeted for 2026

Today’s launch follows months of pilots and collaborative testing, marking a cautious but clear path toward fully driverless commercial service slated for early 2026. Each robotaxi currently operates with a vehicle specialist on board—enhancing safety and gathering operational data in real-world conditions. Fleet management is provided by Tawasul, integrating seamlessly with Uber’s vast ride-hailing ecosystem.

WeRide Ramps Up AV Presence in the Middle East and Globally

With about 150 autonomous vehicles (including 100+ robotaxis) already deployed in the Middle East, WeRide is demonstrating aggressive expansion and ambition. The company, listed on both NASDAQ and HKEX, has tested its tech in over 30 cities and 11 countries, with AV permits spanning the UAE, China, Singapore, Europe, and the US. Both WeRide and Uber cite this launch as central to scaling operations across the region and plan to introduce thousands more robotaxis in the coming years.

Why This Move Signals a Pivotal Shift for Investors and Mobility Stakeholders

Dubai’s fast adoption of AV technology is more than a high-tech showpiece—it’s an effort to keep up with the surging demand for shared mobility and improve urban transport efficiency. The collaboration highlights not only Dubai’s progressive regulatory climate, but also WeRide’s capability to deploy AV fleets at scale—a significant differentiator in the autonomous driving sector.

While full driverless services are at least 18 months out, the current pilot program is building crucial momentum for widespread commercial adoption. Investors watching WeRide (WRD) now have a concrete milestone in Dubai, potentially foreshadowing accelerated international rollouts.

Key Takeaway: Real-World AV Launches Provide Validation and Upside Potential

This launch represents tangible progress from a first-mover in the autonomous space, supported by influential global partners and a regulatory environment eager for change. As cities worldwide jockey for leadership in mobility tech, WeRide’s push in Dubai sets a benchmark to watch, both for consumers and market watchers tracking the future of transportation.

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