Qatar has officially launched its first public road trials for autonomous robotaxis in Doha, marking a significant entry into the competitive regional market for autonomous transportation. The landmark initiative is a partnership between Mowasalat, the country’s largest transport provider, and leading global autonomous driving company Pony.ai.
By The Numbers
- Key Partners: Mowasalat & Pony.ai
- Trial Location: Doha, Qatar
- Pony.ai’s ME Debut: Dubai (May 2025)
- UAE’s AV Goal: 25% of all city trips to be autonomous by 2030
Adapting Technology for Local Conditions
The initial phase of the trial will see Pony.ai’s robotaxis operating on Doha’s public roads with human safety operators onboard. A primary objective is to adapt Pony.ai’s sophisticated “Virtual Driver” technology to Qatar’s unique environmental and infrastructural conditions, including its distinct weather, road layouts, and traffic patterns, ahead of any potential commercial deployment.
A Strategic Push for Qatar National Vision 2030
This collaboration is a key step in fulfilling the goals of Qatar’s National Vision 2030, which prioritizes sustainable development, technological innovation, and economic diversification. By embracing autonomous mobility, Qatar is signaling its commitment to building a technologically advanced and sustainable urban future. The partnership leverages Mowasalat’s extensive local operational experience, including its successful management of transportation during the FIFA World Cup 2022.
Keeping Pace in the Regional AV Race
While Qatar has conducted limited last-mile autonomous trials in the past, this marks its first major public road test for robotaxis. The move comes as neighboring countries accelerate their own AV ambitions. Abu Dhabi has had robotaxi trials running since 2021, and Dubai’s RTA is pursuing an aggressive multi-vendor strategy with partners like Baidu and WeRide. This launch positions Qatar to actively participate and compete in the rapidly evolving landscape of autonomous mobility in the Gulf.
About the Partners
- Mowasalat: As Qatar’s state-owned, primary transportation service provider, Mowasalat brings deep local knowledge and operational expertise to the partnership.
- Pony.ai: A leading global autonomous driving company with significant operations in China and the US. This trial expands its Middle Eastern footprint, which began with a partnership with Dubai’s RTA in May 2025.
Looking Ahead
The partnership between Pony.ai’s advanced technology and Mowasalat’s operational expertise creates a strong foundation for the future of autonomous mobility in Qatar. These trials are a critical first step in developing the necessary regulatory frameworks, infrastructure, and public acceptance for a potential commercial robotaxi service, positioning the country as a key future market for AV technology.
Source: Middle East AI News
