Uber & WeRide Launch Autonomous Mobility Service in Abu Dhabi

Uber Technologies, Inc.and China's WeRide, a devloper of autonomous driving technology, have launched their ride-hailing partnership in Abu Dhabi. The launch represents the first time autonomous vehicles (AVs) are available on the Uber platform outside of the SU.

It is also the largest commercial robotaxi service outside the U#. and China.

Uber riders in Abu Dhabi requesting UberX or Uber Comfort may be matched with a WeRide AV for qualifying trips.

The service will be available in key areas, between Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and routes to and from Zayed International Airport, with plans to expand the operating territory in the future.

At initial launch, each AV will have a safety operator present to ensure a secure and reliable experience for riders and pedestrians, laying the groundwork for a fully driverless commercial service planned for later in 2025.

 WeRide provides autonomous driving products and services from L2 to L4, addressing transportation needs across a wide range of use cases on the open road, including in the mobility, logistics, and sanitation industries. 

Noah Zych, Uber’s Global Head of Autonomous Mobility and Delivery Operations, says: “We’re thrilled to launch our partnership with WeRide, and receive the support of Abu Dhabi’s Integrated Transport Centre. As we take this next step in Abu Dhabi, we are excited to build on the strength of the Uber platform, helping our partners make autonomous vehicles a part of everyday life.”

Jennifer Li, Chief Financial Officer and Head of International Business at WeRide, adds: “WeRide prioritizes passenger and pedestrian safety through rigorously validated autonomous driving technology. As the first publicly listed Robotaxi company, WeRide has demonstrated its commitment to safety through over 1,800 days of public operational experience, setting new benchmarks for autonomous vehicle performance.”

WeRide is the first publicly listed Robotaxi company..