WeRide and Uber launch robotaxi service in Abu Dhabi

WeRide and Uber have launched the first commercial robotaxi service in downtown Abu Dhabi, marking the Emirate’s first autonomous vehicle deployment in its city centre. The expansion means the service now reaches approximately 70% of Abu Dhabi’s core areas, with the fleet quadrupling in size since operations began in December 2024.

The newly expanded service, endorsed by the Integrated Transport Centre, operates across Khalifa City, Masdar City, Rabdan, and routes between Corniche Road and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. WeRide now has more than 200 robotaxis in the Middle East.

Riders using the Uber app and travelling to or from the new areas may be matched with a WeRide Robotaxi GXR through UberX or Uber Comfort, or can book directly via a dedicated Autonomous option. Operations are underway with a vehicle specialist on board as part of a phased approach towards fully driverless service. Tawasul Transport, a UAE national transport company, serves as the fleet operator.

The service previously covered about half of Abu Dhabi’s core areas, including Al Reem, Al Maryah, Yas, and Saadiyat, as well as highway routes to Zayed International Airport. In February 2026, WeRide and Uber committed to deploy at least 1,200 robotaxis across the Middle East by 2027.

Source: WeRide