Uber and WeRide Revolutionize Transport with Autonomous Cars in Dubai

Uber Partners with WeRide to Introduce Autonomous Vehicles in Dubai

Uber Technologies has partnered with WeRide to bring autonomous vehicles (AVs) to Dubai, aligning with the city's ambitious goals for self-driving transport. The collaboration, also involving the Dubai Road and Transport Authority (RTA), aims to enhance the integration of AVs into everyday transport options, making them more accessible and reliable. This partnership follows a broader trend, as driverless taxis hit Dubai, marking a significant step in the city's move towards autonomous mobility solutions.

Dubai has set a target for 25% of all trips in the city to be autonomous by 2030. The partnership with Uber and WeRide is a critical step toward realizing this vision. RTA Director General and Board Chair Mattar Al Tayer commented on the significance of the partnership, stating that it represents "a crucial step in advancing Dubai’s Self-Driving Transport Strategy."

Through this collaboration, Uber and the RTA will launch pilot programs to test the use of AVs within the city, focusing on integrating Uber's technology to match riders with self-driving vehicles. The partnership will also explore various aspects such as data collection, safety measures, and the development of regulatory frameworks to support the safe deployment of autonomous vehicles in the region.

WeRide has already achieved a significant milestone by securing the UAE’s national license for self-driving vehicles in July 2023. This will allow the company to expand its operations, with its AVs set to be available in Dubai following a successful commercial launch in Abu Dhabi on Uber's platform in December 2024.

The self-driving market is expected to grow significantly over the next few years, with projections suggesting that the global autonomous driving market could reach $1.745 trillion by 2030. This rapid growth reflects the rising demand for autonomous transport solutions globally, with the UAE positioning itself as a key player in this transition.

As the project moves forward, Uber, WeRide, and the RTA aim to make self-driving cars a common and reliable part of everyday life in Dubai, contributing to the future of urban mobility.