Dubai Announces Self-Driving Taxi Trials for 2025 Launch

Dubai is set to commence trials of self-driving taxis later this year following a significant agreement between the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Uber, and WeRide to test autonomous vehicles in the emirate.

This agreement signifies a crucial step towards a fully autonomous future in urban mobility. The trials will start through the Uber app with safety drivers onboard, preceding a complete commercial rollout of autonomous ride-hailing services slated for 2026.

This collaboration strategically positions Dubai as a global leader in next-generation mobility solutions.

Self-Driving Uber Taxis in Dubai

Preparatory work for the trials is already in progress, spearheaded by Uber and WeRide under the strategic guidance of the RTA.

Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, commented: “The introduction of autonomous vehicles in Dubai signifies a substantial advance towards a smart and sustainable mobility future, aligning with our leadership's vision to transform Dubai into the world’s smartest city.

“It also serves the goals of the Dubai Smart Self-Driving Transport Strategy, aiming to convert 25 percent of all mobility journeys in the emirate to autonomous trips across various transport modes by 2030.

“This memorandum of understanding reaffirms Dubai’s global leadership in adopting cutting-edge and sustainable transport solutions, embracing innovative technologies, and fostering advanced mobility initiatives.”

Al Tayer further noted that autonomous vehicles would enhance quality of life, improve road safety, and provide a seamless last-mile connectivity across Dubai’s public transport network.

He added, “Autonomous mobility is no longer a futuristic idea—it is a present reality. Global enterprises are rapidly developing the technology and software essential for autonomous vehicles, while authorities are establishing the necessary infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and legislation for the operation of self-driving vehicles.”

Frans Hiemstra, Regional General Manager for MEA at Uber, stated: “At Uber, our vision for the future of transportation is autonomous, electric, and shared. We are thrilled to partner with RTA to expand our autonomous vehicle operations in the UAE by launching in Dubai by 2025, with WeRide as our initial technology partner.

“This strategic partnership underscores our dedication to making autonomous vehicles more accessible worldwide, and we are eager to offer this experience to thousands of riders in Dubai later this year.”

Jennifer Li, CFO and Head of International at WeRide, commented: "We are accelerating our international expansion, prioritizing the Middle East as a key strategic location. Recently, we extended our partnership with Uber to introduce Robotaxis in 15 more cities over five years, with Middle Eastern cities under consideration, and have now formalized this collaboration with Uber and the RTA to bring autonomous vehicles to Dubai through the MoU.

“We fully align with the Dubai Government’s ambitious vision to make 25 percent of all transport autonomous by 2030 and are proud to support this goal with our advanced technology and global expertise.”