WeRide launches robotaxis in Abu Dhabi
- Last updated: November 27, 2025 | 11:56 ..
Gulf Today, Staff Reporter
WeRide, a global autonomous driving technology company, announced the launch of fully driverless (Level 4) commercial robotaxi operations in Abu Dhabi, a first in the Middle East and the first city outside the United States to operate fully driverless vehicles on the Uber platform.
This milestone represents a major step towards the expansion of autonomous mobility solutions in the UAE, thanks to the ongoing partnership between WeRide and Uber with the Abu Dhabi Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) and fleet operator Tawasul.
Public commercial operations have commenced without any specialist on board the autonomous vehicles, initially on Yas Island.
When Uber app users request UberX or Uber Comfort rides in Abu Dhabi, their request may be fulfilled by a WeRide autonomous vehicle, or they can choose the new Autonomous product.
In October 2025, WeRide’s robotaxis received federal approval to operate fully driverless commercial operations.
Following this, the ITC granted WeRide and Tawasul the first commercial operating licence for a fully driverless robotaxi fleet in Abu Dhabi.
The first phase will be managed in partnership between WeRide and Tawasul via the Uber platform.
WeRide has been in Abu Dhabi for four years and in 2023, it became the first company in the UAE to obtain a national licence covering all types of autonomous vehicles, allowing testing and operation on public roads throughout the country, subject to the approval of each emirate.
In December 2024, WeRide and Uber launched their robotaxi partnership in Abu Dhabi, the largest commercial service outside the United States and China. In July 2025, coverage expanded to cover about half of Abu Dhabi’s core areas, including Al Reem Island.
RoboTaxi vehicles offer a smart and seamless transportation experience, designed to meet the needs of modern cities. With their advanced electric design and AI-driven systems, the vehicles ensure precise and consistent driving with real-time responsiveness to surrounding conditions.