#United Arab Emirates #Dubai #Baidu #Uber #Apollo Go

Baidu and Uber’s Revolutionary Step in Dubai

Baidu, Inc. and Uber Technologies, Inc. are making waves in the world of transportation by teaming up to integrate the Apollo Go autonomous ride-hailing service into the Uber app in Dubai. This partnership, announced in early February 2026, signals a significant move towards the future of urban mobility, allowing residents and visitors to experience self-driving technology like never before.

A Collaborative Effort

With this initiative, users will be able to book a fully autonomous vehicle directly through the Uber app in the Jumeirah area, which is a highly sought-after location in the city. This collaboration between Baidu and Uber, in conjunction with the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), aims not only to enhance consumer access to innovative transport options but also aligns with Dubai's ambition to have 25% of all trips made by autonomous vehicles by the year 2030.

From Uber Comfort to UberX, riders will have the chance to be matched with Apollo Go vehicles, contributing to a seamless integration of autonomous technology into everyday life. In the event passengers opt for the ‘Autonomous’ option in the app, they will find themselves in a self-driving car, driven by cutting-edge technology developed by Baidu, a leader in artificial intelligence and autonomous driving solutions.

Enhancing Urban Mobility

Nan Yang, Baidu's Vice President and General Manager of the Overseas Business Unit, expressed excitement about the deployment, stating that it represents a pivotal step in realizing their vision of safe and efficient mobility. In line with their goals, the Apollo Go autonomous ride-hailing service offers a chance to redefine public transportation norms and accessibility. Operations will be managed in collaboration with New Horizon, a third-party operator, ensuring efficient fleet management.

Similarly, Sarfraz Maredia, Uber's Global Head of Autonomous, echoed the sentiments of innovation, reinforcing the importance of expanding consumer access to autonomous technology in urban areas. The enrichment of Uber’s platform through this collaboration promises advanced solutions for an ever-evolving transportation landscape, where users can expect more choices and greater convenience.

A Global Endeavor

This announcement comes shortly after the companies outlined their intentions to expand their services globally, having already deployed operations in London, where the autonomous infrastructure aligns with right-hand driving regulations. As leaders in the sector, both companies are committed to shaping the future of autonomous ride-hailing services. Apollo Go has already established a remarkable record, traveling over 240 million autonomous kilometers, showcasing their robust capabilities and experience in the market.

This deployment is more than just about transport; it's about crafting a sustainable future. With the goal of enhancing operational efficiencies on local roads and contributing to a modern framework of urban mobility through AI technology, Baidu and Uber are embarking on an exciting journey in Dubai.

Future Prospects

As the service progresses, it’s anticipated that the autonomous vehicles will expand to more locations across the city based on regulatory approvals and operational feedback. By introducing Apollo Go to Dubai and leveraging Uber's expansive network, this partnership is positioned to revolutionize urban travel, providing residents and tourists greater freedom and safety in their journeys.

As we march towards a future where autonomous technology plays a pivotal role in our daily lives, Baidu and Uber's initiative in Dubai stands as a beacon of innovation, promising a new era of transportation in one of the world's most dynamic cities.

In conclusion, the partnership between Baidu and Uber to launch the Apollo Go service represents not just an inventive transportation solution but a critical step towards a more sustainable and efficient urban future. With the technology rapidly advancing and the collaboration fully embracing the future of mobility, residents of Dubai are set to experience an unparalleled convenience in how they navigate their world.