In a groundbreaking move for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, Abu Dhabi has launched commercial self-driving taxi services accessible via the Uber app. The autonomous fleet now operates on Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands, two of the city’s busiest business, residential, and financial hubs, marking a significant expansion of the emirate’s ambitious smart transport project.
From Trial to Real Roads: Autonomous Taxis Now Serving Central Abu Dhabi
The autonomous taxi initiative began in late 2024 with a small fleet operating on Saadiyat and Yas Islands. Since then, the service has rapidly scaled up and moved into more complex, high-traffic urban environments. Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands present real-world challenges such as dense traffic, unpredictable road conditions, and constant pedestrian movement, making them an ideal proving ground for self-driving systems.
Riders can hail these driverless taxis through the familiar Uber interface, receiving a quieter, smoother ride without a human driver behind the wheel. While some vehicles still carry onboard safety operators as a precaution, the overall experience is designed to be seamless and comfortable, blending technology with convenience.
A City’s Vision: Smart, Sustainable, and Connected
Abu Dhabi aims to have one in every four trips powered by smart transport by 2040. This vision encompasses autonomous taxis, electric buses, and interconnected public transit options that communicate and coordinate efficiently. This push aligns with the city’s broader goals of:
- Reducing traffic congestion
- Cutting carbon emissions
- Improving livability and urban sustainability
Who’s Driving This Revolution?
The project is managed by Abu Dhabi Mobility’s Integrated Transport Centre, partnering with:
- WeRide, a Chinese-American autonomous driving technology specialist
- Uber, providing ride-booking services
- Tawasul, a local operator handling on-ground fleet management
Equipped with advanced safety tools including sensors, cameras, and emergency systems, the fleet of 44 autonomous vehicles is monitored continuously to ensure passenger safety. To date, the service has operated without any public safety incidents.
What Lies Ahead
Abu Dhabi is planning to extend the autonomous taxi network to more parts of the city in the coming months, accelerating its smart mobility initiatives. As technology matures, the need for onboard safety drivers is expected to phase out, making driverless rides a routine option for commuters.
This initiative not only puts Abu Dhabi at the forefront of urban innovation in the MENA region but also sets an example for cities worldwide aiming to integrate AI-driven transport solutions into everyday life.
Abu Dhabi’s driverless taxis are no longer just a futuristic concept, they are an active, growing reality. With Uber and WeRide’s collaboration, the emirate is paving the way for smarter, safer, and more sustainable urban transport.
