#Abu Dhabi #United Arab Emirates #WeRide #Robotaxi

WeRide's Groundbreaking Driverless Robotaxi Trials in Abu Dhabi

WeRide, a pioneering force in autonomous driving technology, recently took a monumental step by launching its fully driverless Robotaxi trials in Abu Dhabi, marking the first instance of this technology being utilized in the Middle East. Starting from this quarter, WeRide's fleet of Robotaxis will operate on public streets without safety drivers, setting a critical milestone for intelligent mobility in the region.

This latest phase of service expansion involves introducing the Robotaxi network to the notable Al Maryah Island, known for being a financial hub and home to the Abu Dhabi Global Market, as well as the vibrant residential community of Al Reem Island. This service extension builds upon WeRide's existing Robotaxi network, which has reliably served key locations such as Yas Island and Saadiyat Island since 2021, along with routes leading to Zayed International Airport.

Jennifer Li, WeRide's Chief Financial Officer and Head of International Affairs, commented on this historic launch, stating, "WeRide is making history as the first company to pilot fully driverless Robotaxis in the Middle East. This initiative showcases our autonomous leadership within one of the most dynamic urban environments globally. Concurrently, we are expanding our commercial service to high-demand areas like Al Maryah and Al Reem Islands, providing smart mobility solutions to more users in the Middle East. Together, these efforts demonstrate our technological maturity and bring us closer to mass market deployment of Robotaxis."

As part of its accelerated global expansion strategy, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) holds a significant position for WeRide. In July 2023, the company acquired the first and only national license for self-driving vehicles in the UAE. This license permits testing and operation of autonomous vehicles across public roads throughout the country. Furthermore, in December 2024, WeRide established a partnership with Uber to create a ride-hailing service in Abu Dhabi, which now stands as the largest commercial Robotaxi service operating outside the USA and China.

Looking ahead, commercial driverless rides along with additional service areas are anticipated to launch in the summer of 2025, pending regulatory approval.

About WeRide

WeRide is not only a leader but also a trailblazer in the autonomous driving sector, being the first public Robotaxi company globally. The firm operates in over 30 cities across 10 countries and holds licenses for driverless operations in China, the UAE, Singapore, France, and the USA. Leveraging the intelligent and adaptable WeRide One platform, the company offers a range of autonomous driving products and services from levels 2 to 4, catering to needs in mobility, logistics, and waste disposal.

WeRide's contributions to the industry have not gone unnoticed; it was recognized by Fortune Magazine in 2024 as one of "The Future 50" companies.

For media inquiries, you can contact WeRide at: media@weride.ai