#Abu Dhabi #United Arab Emirates #Apollo Go #Autogo

Fully Autonomous Ride-Hailing Service Launched in Abu Dhabi

In an exciting development for the world of autonomous transportation, Baidu's Apollo Go and UAE-based K2's AutoGo have launched their fully driverless ride-hailing service on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. This initiative comes on the heels of securing a commercial permit for fully autonomous operations in November 2025, reflecting rapid advancements in autonomous mobility in the region.

Initially, the service will operate through the AutoGo app, allowing users to easily hail rides without any human driver present. This launch is more than just a technological feat; it is a step towards Abu Dhabi's larger vision of becoming a smart city, where advanced technology integrates seamlessly into daily life.

The collaboration between Baidu and AutoGo began in March 2025 with a shared goal of creating the largest fully driverless fleet in Abu Dhabi. Following this partnership, both companies worked swiftly to establish themselves in the market. Their swift progress underscores their commitment to technological innovation and operational excellence. Liang Zhang, Managing Director of EMEA at Baidu Apollo, expressed pride in the quick transition from a partnership agreement to live operations, highlighting the trust and support from local regulatory entities.

Sean Teo, Managing Director of K2, commented on this milestone, emphasizing that the introduction of robotaxi services in a real urban environment reflects their dedication to practical and safe autonomous transportation. The initial rollout on Yas Island, known for its leisure and entertainment offerings, marks a strategic decision to tap into an area with high demand for ride-hailing services.

As the service rolls out, the plan is to expand to other prominent areas like Reem Island, Al Maryah Island, and Saadiyat Island, ultimately covering a more extensive network across Abu Dhabi. This growth aims not only to enhance mobility but also to establish a robust ecosystem for autonomous transportation. Currently, Apollo Go has a significant track record globally, having completed over 240 million kilometers of autonomous driving, with a majority executed in fully driverless mode. This expertise positions Apollo Go strongly in the UAE market, allowing for a high standard of service delivery from the outset.

The AutoGo app, launched for public access, is a testament to the technological prowess behind the initiative. Users can simply download the app, request a ride, and enjoy the seamless experience of driverless travel. It also speaks volumes about the companies' commitment to not just technology but customer experience, ensuring that users feel comfortable and confident in this innovative mode of transport.

Looking ahead, Baidu's Apollo Go and AutoGo are set on a path to significantly expand their operations and services throughout Abu Dhabi. Their commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to revolutionize how people move within urban environments aligns perfectly with global trends towards sustainable and automated transport solutions. With plans for a fleet of hundreds of driverless vehicles by 2026, this partnership aims to leave a lasting impact on the transportation landscape in the Middle East.

Through these efforts, Baidu and AutoGo are not just participating in the autonomous revolution but are actively shaping its future in Abu Dhabi and beyond, paving the way for innovative solutions that promise efficiency, safety, and convenience for all users. As cities around the world seek to incorporate autonomous technology into their transportation systems, the success of this venture may serve as a model for other regions aiming to embrace driverless technology.