Uber to launch self-driving cars in Abu Dhabi by end of year

Abu Dhabi is poised to witness a significant milestone in transportation as Uber Technologies prepares to introduce self-driving cars in the capital later this year. In a move that underscores the growing momentum of autonomous vehicle technology in the region, Uber has partnered with China's WeRide to launch a fleet of robotaxis on its platform in the UAE.

The collaboration between Uber and WeRide marks a strategic initiative to offer users the option of autonomous rides through the Uber app. While the exact number of self-driving vehicles to be deployed in Abu Dhabi has not yet been revealed, the introduction of WeRide's robotaxis signifies a major step toward the future of urban mobility in the region. Commuters will soon be able to select WeRide’s autonomous vehicles alongside traditional rides when hailing a ride via Uber.

This announcement follows the UAE’s landmark decision in 2023 to grant WeRide the first national license for self-driving vehicles. This made the UAE the first country in the Middle East—and one of the few globally—to issue a national-level autonomous driving license. With this license, WeRide was granted the authority to conduct road testing and autonomous vehicle operations across the country.

For WeRide, this collaboration with Uber marks its first partnership with a global ride-hailing platform, allowing the Chinese autonomous driving company to expand its operations beyond its domestic market. For Uber, the integration of WeRide’s self-driving cars aligns with its broader strategy of incorporating autonomous vehicles into its platform. The partnership also highlights Uber’s continued investment in robotaxi technology.

Globally, Uber has made significant strides in integrating self-driving technology into its services. Earlier this month, Uber expanded its collaboration with Alphabet’s Waymo to bring robotaxis to the streets of Austin and Atlanta in the United States. In addition, Uber announced a partnership with General Motors’ Cruise unit, which will offer its autonomous vehicles on the Uber platform starting next year.

Meanwhile, WeRide has been preparing to list its shares in the United States, with a valuation of up to $5 billion. However, the company has delayed its initial public offering, citing the need to complete additional documentation before proceeding with the listing.

This latest partnership signals a new chapter in the future of autonomous transportation, with Abu Dhabi emerging as a key city in the global development of self-driving technology.