Uber and WeRide Launch Robotaxi Service Covering 70% of Downtown Abu Dhabi
Uber Technologies and WeRide deployed Abu Dhabi’s first commercial downtown robotaxi service, offering matches via UberX, Uber Comfort or a dedicated “Autonomous” option with onboard safety specialists. The service now covers roughly 70% of core city areas, quadrupling fleet size since December 2024 and highlighting a push toward driverless operations.
1. Service Launch
On February 12, Uber Technologies partnered with autonomous-vehicle operator WeRide to launch Abu Dhabi’s first commercial downtown robotaxi service. Riders can request robotaxis via UberX or Uber Comfort and select a dedicated “Autonomous” option, with each vehicle carrying a safety specialist during the phased rollout.
2. Coverage Expansion
The service spans key landmarks including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and major hotels along the Corniche, covering approximately 70% of Abu Dhabi’s core areas. Since operations began in December 2024, the robotaxi fleet has grown fourfold, boosting urban connectivity and supporting the emirate’s smart mobility goals.
3. Operations and Future Plans
Tawasul Transport manages vehicle and fleet operations as the primary operator, while Uber and WeRide aim to transition to fully driverless service in stages. The partners plan to expand to 1,200 robotaxis across Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Riyadh by 2027, leveraging a four-year market lead in Abu Dhabi’s autonomous vehicle sector.