Uber and WeRides robotaxi service in Abu Dhabi is officially driverless | TechCrunch

Driverless Robotaxis Hit Abu Dhabi Streets in Historic Uber-WeRide Launch

A fully driverless robotaxi service is now operating in Abu Dhabi. The commercial service is a partnership between Uber and Chinese autonomous vehicle firm WeRide. It launched publicly on Yas Island.

This marks a major transportation milestone. It is the first commercial driverless robotaxi deployment outside of the U.S. or China. According to Reuters, this signals a significant step for the global autonomous vehicle industry.

driverless robotaxi Abu Dhabi

How the New Driverless Service Works for Riders

Uber riders in the service area can now hail a car with no safety driver. Riders using the Uber app may be matched with a WeRide vehicle when selecting Uber Comfort or UberX. To specifically request a driverless ride, users can select the “Autonomous” option within the app.

The service will initially cover routes on Yas Island. This tourist district is home to the Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit. The companies plan to expand the service to Abu Dhabi’s city center soon.

A Strategic Push for Global Autonomous Dominance

This launch is part of Uber’s broader strategy to integrate autonomous technology. The company has formed over 20 partnerships with self-driving firms worldwide. These deals span robotaxis, delivery, and trucking applications.

Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi has set an ambitious goal. He forecasts autonomous vehicle deployments on the Uber network in at least 10 cities by the end of 2026. The Abu Dhabi success is a critical first step in this global rollout.

The launch of a commercial driverless robotaxi service in Abu Dhabi establishes a new benchmark for the industry. This successful deployment paves the way for a rapid global expansion of autonomous ride-hailing.

Thought you’d like to know

Where can I use the driverless robotaxi service?

The service is currently available to the public on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. The companies plan to expand it to other parts of the city center in the near future.

How do I hail a driverless Uber in Abu Dhabi?

Open the Uber app and select UberX or Uber Comfort. You may be matched with a WeRide robotaxi. You can also choose the “Autonomous” option to increase your chances of a driverless ride.

Is this the first service of its kind?

Yes, this is the first commercial driverless robotaxi service to launch outside of the United States or China. It represents a historic moment for global transportation.

What are the future expansion plans?

Uber and WeRide have previously shared plans to expand to 15 cities across the Middle East and Europe. They aim to scale their fleet to thousands of robotaxis.

Who operates the autonomous vehicles?

The self-driving technology is provided by WeRide. Uber handles the ride-hailing network and user interface. Fleet operations are supported by partner Tawasul.