Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has expanded its strategic alliances with top autonomous driving technology companies, setting the stage for a revolutionary deployment of autonomous taxis in the city. In a major step toward its vision of becoming a global leader in smart mobility, RTA has partnered with Uber and its autonomous driving partner WeRide, alongside Baidu’s Apollo Go, a global front-runner in self-driving technology. These collaborations aim to position Dubai at the forefront of autonomous transportation and reinforce its ambition to be the smartest city in the world.
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at RTA, emphasized the significance of these partnerships in advancing Dubai’s Self-Driving Transport Strategy, which targets a 25% transition to autonomous mobility across all transport modes by 2030. “By working with Uber, starting with WeRide as the technology partner, and Baidu’s Apollo Go, we are taking a decisive step in the evolution of Dubai’s transportation landscape. Our commitment to embracing cutting-edge technologies will redefine mobility and enhance the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of our transport network,” he stated.
Pioneering the Future of Mobility
Dubai’s autonomous taxi rollout is expected to streamline urban mobility by seamlessly integrating with public transport systems and enhancing first- and last-mile connectivity. Al Tayer highlighted the significant role autonomous vehicles will play in improving road safety, given that human error accounts for over 90% of traffic accidents. Additionally, these driverless taxis will cater to diverse segments of the population, including senior citizens, residents, and people of determination.
Under the new initiative, Uber, alongside WeRide, and Baidu’s Apollo Go will commence trial operations of autonomous taxis in Dubai in 2024, with safety drivers initially present. The trials will lay the groundwork for a fully driverless commercial launch scheduled for 2026, marking a significant leap toward the mass adoption of autonomous ride-hailing services.
Baidu’s Apollo Go Expands Beyond China
Dr. Wang Yunpeng, Baidu’s Corporate Vice President and President of Baidu Intelligent Driving Group, hailed the partnership as a landmark moment for Apollo Go’s global expansion. “This collaboration with RTA is Apollo Go’s most significant international venture to date. It reflects Dubai’s forward-thinking approach to autonomous mobility, and we are committed to delivering safe, intelligent, and sustainable transportation solutions to serve broader communities,” he said.
Apollo Go has already amassed an impressive record, completing over 150 million kilometers of autonomous driving and more than 10 million driverless rides in China. Its next-generation robotaxi, the RT6, has been met with enthusiastic public reception, reinforcing Baidu’s leadership in autonomous transportation.
Uber and WeRide’s Role in Dubai’s Autonomous Future
Noah Zych, Uber’s Global Head of Autonomous Mobility and Delivery Operations, expressed excitement about bringing self-driving technology to the Uber platform in Dubai. “Uber’s mission is to revolutionize mobility, and this partnership marks a significant step toward making autonomous ride-hailing a reality for millions of riders,” he noted.
WeRide, a pioneer in autonomous driving solutions, views Dubai as a natural extension of its global expansion. “By combining WeRide’s advanced self-driving technology with Uber’s extensive mobility platform, we will deliver a world-class autonomous transport experience in Dubai,” said Jennifer Li, Chief Financial Officer and Head of International Business at WeRide.
Transforming Dubai’s Transport Landscape
Dubai’s commitment to innovation in mobility is reflected in its continuous efforts to integrate smart, AI-driven transport solutions. With the support of industry giants like Uber, WeRide, and Baidu, the city is on track to revolutionize urban transport, reducing congestion, enhancing road safety, and improving the overall commuting experience. As the trials progress and the commercial rollout approaches, Dubai is poised to set a global benchmark for autonomous mobility, shaping the future of transportation worldwide.
