Uber teams up with WeRide to bring autonomous ridehailing to Abu Dhabi
Updated: Dec 8, 2024
Uber and WeRide have launched a ride-hailing partnership in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant milestone for autonomous vehicle (AV) services outside the United States and China.
The collaboration introduces autonomous ride options on the Uber platform in the UAE capital, making it the first time Uber has offered such services internationally. Supported by Abu Dhabi’s Integrated Transport Centre and with Tawasul Transport managing the fleet, this rollout signals a step towards integrating self-driving technology into the region’s daily transport network.
From today, Uber riders booking UberX or Uber Comfort in designated areas of Abu Dhabi may be matched with a WeRide autonomous vehicle. The initial service will cover key routes, including trips between Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and Zayed International Airport. Expansion plans are already in the works.
For now, a safety operator will be present in each vehicle to monitor trips and ensure reliability, with plans to transition to a fully driverless service in 2025. Users interested in experiencing AV rides can opt in via the Ride Preferences section of their Uber app.
Noah Zych, Uber’s Global Head of Autonomous Mobility and Delivery Operations, said: “We’re thrilled to launch our partnership with WeRide, and receive the support of Abu Dhabi’s Integrated Transport Centre. As we take this next step in Abu Dhabi, we are excited to build on the strength of the Uber platform, helping our partners make autonomous vehicles a part of everyday life.”
Jennifer Li, Chief Financial Officer and Head of International Business at WeRide, said: “WeRide prioritizes passenger and pedestrian safety through rigorously validated autonomous driving technology. As the first publicly listed Robotaxi company, WeRide has demonstrated its commitment to safety through over 1,800 days of public operational experience, setting new benchmarks for autonomous vehicle performance.”
