Pony.ai eyes 2026 commercial robotaxi launch in Dubai

Pony.ai has begun driverless robotaxi trials in Dubai, marking a significant step in its rollout across the emirate and its broader international expansion strategy. The company expects to launch public-facing, fare-charging robotaxi services in the city later in 2026 with a fleet of hundreds of vehicles.

The trials advance Pony.ai’s collaboration with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), which granted the company a permit for public-road autonomous testing in September 2025. The move to driverless operation follows months of on-road validation and prepares the way for commercial launch.

Dr James Peng, Founder and Chief Executive of Pony.ai, said: “Dubai marks an important milestone in Pony.ai’s global robotaxi commercialisation strategy. We are now moving into driverless operations in one of the world’s leading smart mobility markets, and look forward to bringing safe, reliable autonomous mobility to more users in the emirate.”

Dubai aims for 25% of local trips to be served by autonomous mobility under its 2030 smart city vision. Pony.ai plans to expand its robotaxi fleet to more than 3,000 vehicles across over 20 cities worldwide by 2026, with overseas markets accounting for roughly half.

The company runs a partnership-driven model where it provides autonomous driving technology and mass production, while partners contribute local operations and vehicle funding. Collaborations include Uber, Verne in Croatia, Toyota, Chenqi Mobility, and ATBB.

Source: Pony.ai