Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has officially launched its first autonomous taxi service, marking a significant step in the emirate’s strategy for self-driving transport. The new service allows the public to book complimentary rides in two designated areas, signaling a major operational milestone for Dubai’s future mobility plans.
Quick Facts
- Service offers free autonomous taxi rides.
- Available in Dubai’s Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah areas.
- Bookings can be made via Uber or Apollo Go.
Partnership with Apollo Go and WeRide Powers New Service
The initiative is a collaboration with autonomous vehicle technology companies Apollo Go and WeRide. Residents and visitors can now hail these self-driving vehicles through the widely used Uber app or the dedicated Apollo Go application.
This launch follows months of strategic agreements and testing. In January, Dubai granted the first permit for testing fully driverless vehicles to Apollo Go, the ride-hailing arm of Chinese tech giant Baidu. An agreement to advance autonomous driving tests and services was formally signed between the RTA and Apollo Go in March 2025.
Phased Rollout Part of Broader Autonomous Strategy
The current deployment is part of a carefully managed, phased approach. Earlier this year, Mansoor Rahma Alfalasi, CEO of Dubai Taxi Corporation, indicated that a deal with a major operator was imminent. He explained that the vehicles would initially operate with a safety “driver” on board before transitioning to a fully autonomous model.
This gradual implementation ensures public safety and allows for system refinement as the technology becomes more integrated into the city’s transport network.
Regulatory Groundwork Paves Way for More Players
Dubai and the wider UAE have been actively building a regulatory framework to support the autonomous vehicle sector. WeRide, a China-based autonomous driving company, has already secured a federal-level license from the UAE government to operate fully driverless robotaxis.
The growing market is also attracting other major industry names. Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD Group has announced plans to enter the UAE’s autonomous mobility space, highlighting the region’s increasing importance in the global push for driverless transport solutions.
About Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is the government entity responsible for planning and providing the transportation and roads infrastructure in Dubai and between Dubai and other Emirates of the UAE. It oversees public transport, traffic management, and road project development to support the city’s economic and social growth.
Source: AGBI
