Uber Technologies, Inc. has partnered with WeRide, a leading autonomous driving technology developer based in China, to introduce autonomous ride-hailing services in Abu Dhabi. This launch marks a significant milestone as it is the first time autonomous vehicles (AVs) are integrated into the Uber platform outside the United States. It also represents the largest commercial robotaxi deployment beyond the U.S. and China.
Through this collaboration, Uber riders in Abu Dhabi booking UberX or Uber Comfort trips may now experience the convenience of being matched with a WeRide autonomous vehicle. Initially, the service will operate in key areas, including Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and on routes to and from Zayed International Airport. Future plans aim to expand the service coverage to additional locations within Abu Dhabi.
At the launch phase, WeRide’s AVs will feature onboard safety operators to ensure a secure and seamless experience for both passengers and pedestrians. These operators are an essential part of the rollout strategy, providing oversight and building trust with users as the service gains traction. Uber and WeRide envision a fully driverless commercial service by late 2025, paving the way for a more autonomous future in urban mobility.
WeRide is renowned for its innovative solutions in autonomous driving, offering a range of products and services from Level 2 (partial automation) to Level 4 (high automation). These solutions cater to diverse industries, including mobility, logistics, and sanitation, making WeRide a versatile leader in the autonomous technology landscape. The company’s commitment to safety is evident in its track record, boasting over 1,800 days of public operational experience.
“WeRide prioritizes passenger and pedestrian safety through rigorously validated autonomous driving technology,” said Jennifer Li, Chief Financial Officer and Head of International Business at WeRide. “As the first publicly listed Robotaxi company, we have set new benchmarks for performance and safety, and this collaboration with Uber aligns perfectly with our mission of advancing autonomous transportation on a global scale.”
The launch is a significant step for Uber’s autonomous mobility initiatives, further supported by Abu Dhabi’s Integrated Transport Centre. “We’re thrilled to partner with WeRide to bring autonomous vehicles to the Uber platform in Abu Dhabi,” said Noah Zych, Global Head of Autonomous Mobility and Delivery Operations at Uber. “This marks an exciting new chapter for us as we leverage our platform to integrate cutting-edge autonomous technology into everyday life.”
Abu Dhabi, known for its forward-thinking approach to innovation, provides an ideal setting for this groundbreaking service. The city’s infrastructure, coupled with strong regulatory support, positions it as a global hub for autonomous technology development and adoption. The initiative not only enhances transportation options for residents and visitors but also underscores the potential of public-private partnerships in accelerating the adoption of sustainable and efficient mobility solutions.
As Uber and WeRide continue to refine and expand their autonomous service, the collaboration is set to redefine ride-hailing experiences. By combining Uber’s extensive ride-hailing platform with WeRide’s advanced autonomous capabilities, the partnership is poised to set a new standard for mobility solutions, making autonomous vehicles a reality for more users around the world.
