Dubai Self-Driving Taxis: 2025 Launch Date
- dubai is poised to become a testing ground for autonomous vehicles, with self-driving taxi trials set to begin this year.
- The initiative, slated to launch via the Uber app, will initially include safety drivers.
- Preparations are underway, with Uber and WeRide collaborating under the RTA's guidance to ensure a smooth and safe implementation of the autonomous vehicle program.
Dubai is launching self-driving taxi trials in 2025,marking a important step towards autonomous mobility. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has partnered with Uber and weride to pilot these innovative vehicles,aiming to integrate them into the existing transportation network. The initial phase will involve safety drivers,with a full commercial rollout of driverless services expected in 2026. This initiative aligns with Dubai’s goal to have 25% of all journeys be autonomous by 2030. Uber and WeRide are collaborating with the RTA to ensure a safe and efficient implementation. News Directory 3 provides updates on these advancements in technology. Discover what’s next as Dubai shapes the future of urban transportation.
Dubai to Launch Self-Driving Taxi Trials with Uber and WeRide
Updated June 15, 2025
dubai is poised to become a testing ground for autonomous vehicles, with self-driving taxi trials set to begin this year. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has formalized agreements with Uber and WeRide to pilot these next-generation mobility solutions in the emirate.
The initiative, slated to launch via the Uber app, will initially include safety drivers. A full-scale commercial rollout of driverless ride-hailing services is anticipated in 2026. This partnership aims to establish Dubai as a global leader in innovative transportation.
Preparations are underway, with Uber and WeRide collaborating under the RTA’s guidance to ensure a smooth and safe implementation of the autonomous vehicle program. the goal is to integrate these self-driving taxis seamlessly into dubai’s existing transport network.
“The introduction of autonomous vehicles in Dubai represents a significant leap towards a smart and sustainable future for mobility, in line with the vision of our leadership to transform Dubai into the world’s smartest city,” saeid Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority.
Al Tayer added that autonomous vehicles will improve quality of life, enhance road safety, and ensure more seamless last-mile connectivity across Dubai’s public transport network. The Dubai Smart Self-Driving transport Strategy aims for 25% of all mobility journeys in the emirate to be autonomous by 2030.
Frans Hiemstra, Regional General Manager, MEA at Uber, said Uber is building the future of transportation, one they see as autonomous, electric, and shared. He added that Uber is thrilled to partner with RTA to expand autonomous vehicle operations in the UAE by launching in Dubai in 2025, starting with WeRide as their first technology partner.
Jennifer Li, CFO and Head of International at WeRide, said that they are accelerating their international expansion, with the Middle East as a strategic priority. She added that they are fully aligned with Dubai Government’s ambitious vision to make 25 per cent of all transportation trips autonomous by 2030 and are proud to support this goal with their advanced technology and global experience.
what’s next
Following the initial trials, the focus will be on expanding the self-driving taxi service and integrating it further into Dubai’s public transportation infrastructure. The RTA, Uber, and WeRide will continue to collaborate on refining the technology and ensuring its safety and efficiency.