WeRide launches fully driverless Robotaxi trial in Abu Dhabi

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On May 16, 2025, WeRide announced the launch of its fully driverless Robotaxi pilot service in Abu Dhabi, marking the debut of the Middle East's first autonomous taxi fleet with no safety drivers on board.

Beginning in the second quarter of 2025, the fleet will operate on public roads without human intervention, representing a new milestone in the development of Abu Dhabi's smart mobility ecosystem.

The service area for WeRide's Robotaxi network in Abu Dhabi has also expanded to include Al Maryah Island and Al Reem Island—two high-demand transportation zones in the city. Al Maryah Island serves as the financial hub of Abu Dhabi and is home to the headquarters of the Abu Dhabi Global Market ("ADGM"), while Al Reem Island features a dense network of residential communities. These newly added areas strengthen the company's existing operational network, which already covers Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and routes to and from Zayed International Airport.

The United Arab Emirates ("UAE") has become a core market for WeRide's autonomous driving innovation and international expansion. In July 2023, the company was granted the UAE's first autonomous vehicle testing and operation license, allowing it to operate all vehicle types across the entire country's public road network. This was not only a first for the Middle East, but also the world's first national-level, all-scenario autonomous driving license.

In September 2024, WeRide entered into a strategic partnership with Uber, and by December of that year, the two companies had jointly launched public Robotaxi services in Abu Dhabi. This created the world's largest Robotaxi fleet outside of China and the United States, laying the foundation for WeRide's full transition to commercial driverless operations in 2025.

Starting in summer 2025, and with the necessary approvals from local authorities, WeRide will gradually roll out commercial services using fully driverless Robotaxis and continue to expand its coverage across the region.