Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has issued permits to three global leaders in autonomous vehicle technology—Baidu’s Apollo Go, WeRide, and Pony.ai—authorizing them to begin on-road testing in the emirate. This move marks a significant milestone in Dubai’s plan to integrate self-driving technology into its public transportation network and wider urban environment.
Bringing Global AV Leaders To Dubai’s Streets
The new permits allow the three companies to immediately begin deploying their autonomous vehicles for testing across Dubai. This phase will focus on ensuring the vehicles and their advanced technologies adapt seamlessly to the city’s unique local environment and traffic conditions. The collaboration leverages the deep expertise of these international firms in both autonomous driving systems and large-scale fleet operations.
Driving Towards The 2030 Vision
This initiative is a crucial step in achieving the goals of Dubai’s Smart Self-Driving Transport Strategy, which aims to convert 25% of all mobility journeys into autonomous trips by 2030. The on-road trials build upon agreements signed earlier this year between the RTA and the companies, forming a key part of the official roadmap to introduce autonomous taxi services and solidify Dubai’s position as a global pioneer in smart mobility.
Establishing A Global Benchmark For Smart Mobility
The partnership between the RTA and the three tech giants aims to co-create a new global benchmark for smart and autonomous urban mobility. By testing and refining these technologies within Dubai’s advanced infrastructure, the collaboration seeks to contribute to the city’s reputation as a world-leading hub for innovation and autonomous solutions.
About The Companies
Baidu (Apollo Go), WeRide, and Pony.ai are global leaders in the development of autonomous driving technology. Each company specializes in creating advanced Level 4 autonomous driving systems, fleet operations, and smart mobility solutions, with active deployments in major cities across China, the US, and now the Middle East.
About Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)
The RTA is the government entity responsible for planning and providing an integrated transport system in the Emirate of Dubai. It plays a leading role in implementing the city’s smart mobility initiatives, including the ambitious Smart Self-Driving Transport Strategy.
Source: Gulf Business
