Uber Debuts First International Robotaxi Service in Abu Dhabi
The service, launched in partnership with WeRide, features autonomous vehicles with safety operators and plans for driverless rides by 2025.
- Uber has launched its first robotaxi service outside the United States in Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with Chinese autonomous vehicle company WeRide.
- The service operates in key tourist areas such as Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and routes to and from Zayed International Airport, with plans to expand coverage in the future.
- Initially, autonomous vehicles will include human safety operators, with a fully driverless service expected to roll out in 2025.
- WeRide, which holds driverless operation permits in multiple countries, has been testing autonomous vehicles in Abu Dhabi since 2023.
- Uber continues to position itself as a platform for autonomous vehicle partnerships, but faces competition from companies like Waymo and potential entrants like Tesla's proposed robotaxi network.