Uber Technologies has announced a partnership with Chinese autonomous vehicle company WeRide to expand its robotaxi services in the UAE.

Starting later this year, Uber users in Abu Dhabi will be able to book self-driving taxis through the app, enhancing the accessibility of autonomous rides in the capital. This collaboration builds on WeRide’s existing operations in key locations like Yas and Saadiyat Islands, where their robotaxis have been serving riders following successful trials.

According to the ride-hailing giant, “After launch, when a rider requests a qualifying ride on the Uber app, they may be presented with the option to have their trip fulfilled by a WeRide autonomous vehicle.” 

Robotaxi on Uber

The partnership is expected to launch first in Abu Dhabi later this year. A dedicated number of WeRide vehicles will be made available to consumers using the Uber app.

WeRide operates the largest robotaxi fleet in the UAE, offering its autonomous taxi services via the TXAI app. In July 2023, the company secured the UAE’s first and only national license for self-driving vehicles, enabling it to test and deploy robotaxis on public roads across the country.

At the time of receiving the license, the Guangzhou-based company had eight driverless taxis in operation.

“It’s clear that the future of mobility will be increasingly shared, electric, and autonomous, and we look forward to working with leading AV companies such as WeRide to help bring the benefits of autonomous technology to cities around the world,” said Dara Khosrowshahi, the CEO of Uber.

Tony Han, founder and CEO of WeRide said: “We are honored to partner with Uber to continue to bring our technology to global markets. Together, we aim to combine our collective experience and expertise to deliver much needed, affordable, sustainable and safe mobility solutions to a global audience.”

Uber and WeRide currently have no plans to introduce robotaxis in the US or China.

Meanwhile, Dubai is advancing its robotaxi rollout in partnership with Cruise, following the supervised testing of Chevrolet Bolt self-driving taxis in October 2023. The city aims to deploy 4,000 autonomous taxis by 2030, with Cruise serving as the exclusive provider until 2029. This initiative is designed to alleviate traffic congestion, reduce accidents, and lower emissions.

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