Abu Dhabi-based mobility solutions company K2 has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with global autonomous vehicle leader WeRide to jointly operate autonomous buses in the UAE capital. The agreement, signed at UMEX 2026, aims to accelerate the real-world deployment of autonomous public transport in the emirate.
This major initiative is supported by the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC) and the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), aligning directly with Abu Dhabi’s vision to become a global hub for intelligent and sustainable transportation solutions.
A Strategic Push for Smart Mobility
The collaboration represents a significant step forward in Abu Dhabi’s smart mobility strategy. By introducing autonomous buses to its public transport network, the emirate is strengthening its position at the forefront of urban innovation and sustainable technology.
Waleed Alblooshi, Vice President of Strategy at K2, commented on the partnership’s importance, stating, “The strategic cooperation between K2 and WeRide reflects the importance of collaboration to realise a future where autonomous technologies operate seamlessly and sustainably.”
Combining Local Expertise With Global Technology
The partnership is structured to leverage the distinct strengths of both companies. K2 will contribute its deep local expertise, established fleet management capabilities, and extensive experience in deploying mobility solutions on the ground in the UAE.
“K2 leverages its local expertise, fleet management capabilities, and experience in deploying real-world mobility solutions, while WeRide contributes its global AV expertise and its extensive deployment experience,” Alblooshi added.
WeRide will provide its proven L4 autonomous driving technology to power the Robobus fleet. Ryan Zhan, Regional General Manager of Middle East and Africa at WeRide, said, “This MoU with K2 marks the next phase of our growth, as we partner to develop and commercialise our Robobus in the Emirate. By combining our proven L4 autonomous driving technology with K2’s deep local expertise, we are accelerating safer, smarter, and more sustainable autonomous public transport across the UAE and the wider Middle East.”
About K2
K2 is an Abu Dhabi-based company focused on deploying innovative mobility solutions. With an extensive history operating within the autonomous ecosystem, its subsidiaries have successfully tested robotaxis and last-mile delivery solutions for tens of thousands of kilometres, establishing a strong foundation for large-scale autonomous vehicle deployment in the region.
Source: Zawya
