Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: UBER), the world’s leading mobility and delivery technology platform, and WeRide (NASDAQ: WRD), a trailblazer in autonomous driving technology and the first publicly listed Robotaxi company, have announced a landmark partnership to introduce autonomous ride-hailing services in Abu Dhabi. This collaboration marks a historic moment, as it is the first deployment of autonomous vehicles (AVs) on Uber’s platform outside the United States and establishes the largest commercial Robotaxi service outside the U.S. and China.
The launch is backed by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) of Abu Dhabi, reflecting a significant step toward integrating autonomous vehicles into everyday life in the region. The fleet will be operated by Tawasul Transport, a prominent UAE-based national transport company, ensuring high standards of service and reliability.
Starting today, Uber riders in Abu Dhabi who request UberX or Uber Comfort rides may be matched with a WeRide autonomous vehicle for eligible trips. The service will initially operate in prominent locations, including Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and routes to and from Zayed International Airport. Plans are already in place to expand the operational areas as the partnership progresses.
At this initial stage, each autonomous vehicle will have a safety operator onboard to oversee operations and ensure a secure and seamless experience for riders and pedestrians. This foundational step will pave the way for a fully driverless Robotaxi service, which is expected to launch commercially by 2025.
For Uber riders eager to experience this cutting-edge technology, the option to increase the likelihood of being matched with a WeRide AV is available. Users can opt-in via the “Ride Preferences” section under “Settings” in their Uber app.
Jennifer Li, Chief Financial Officer and Head of International Business at WeRide, emphasized the company’s dedication to safety and innovation, stating:
Safety remains the cornerstone of this initiative. WeRide’s advanced safety protocols align seamlessly with Uber’s stringent guidelines for AV partners. Both companies will continuously monitor safety performance post-deployment to uphold the highest standards of service.
The Uber-WeRide partnership is poised to transform Abu Dhabi’s transportation landscape, positioning the city as a global leader in smart mobility solutions. By making autonomous technology accessible to the public, this initiative not only enhances convenience but also sets new benchmarks for sustainability and innovation in urban transit.
With this historic collaboration, Uber and WeRide are driving a new era of mobility, laying the foundation for autonomous vehicles to become an integral part of everyday life in Abu Dhabi and beyond.