Robotaxis undergo formal testing in Abu Dhabi
In a significant move for the autonomous mobility space, WeRide has officially commenced driverless robotaxi tests in Abu Dhabi, marking the first deployment of its kind in the Middle East. The tests, which began in Q2 2025, have been initiated in select areas, including Al Maryah Island and Al Reem Island, with plans to extend service coverage across the city upon obtaining regulatory approval.
Jennifer Li, CFO and Head of International Business at WeRide, stated, "We are expanding commercial service to high-demand areas like Al Maryah and Al Reem Islands - bringing smart mobility solutions to more users in the Middle East. This demonstrates our technological maturity and moves us closer to mass commercialization of Robotaxis."
The robotaxis are equipped with advanced sensors, artificial intelligence technologies, and mapping systems to ensure safe and efficient navigation of the roads. Notably, WeRide's expansion plans in Abu Dhabi are supported by a strategic partnership with Uber, who recently invested $100 million in the company to facilitate global robotaxi deployment.
This deployment in Abu Dhabi represents a pivotal step in WeRide's ambitious plans to bring its robotaxi services to 15 additional cities worldwide over the next five years, with a focus on expanding beyond China and the United States. The company sees Abu Dhabi as a launchpad for wider regional and international growth.
[1] Al Bawaba.com, "Uber and WeRide launch first self-driving smart mobility service in UAE" (2025).[2] TechCrunch.com, "China's Self-Driving Startup WeRide Deepens Ties With Nissan" (2023).[3] TechRadar.com, "Abu Dhabi officially begins robotaxi tests" (2025).[4] Reuters.com, "WeRide begins driverless robotaxi service in Abu Dhabi" (2025).[5] WeRide.ai, "WeRide Announces Partnership with Uber for Global Robotaxi Deployment" (2024).
- The deployment of WeRide's driverless robotaxi services in Abu Dhabi marks a significant milestone in the history of autonomous mobility, representing the first of its kind in the Middle East.
- WeRide's expansion into Abu Dhabi, with a strategic partnership from Uber, signifies a potential leap in the global transportation industry, as it moves towards mass commercialization of self-driving vehicles.
- As technology continues to advance, the music and entertainment industries may experience a shift, as people may opt for in-car entertainment systems provided by autonomous vehicles like WeRide's robotaxis.
- The successful implementation of robotaxi services in Abu Dhabi could have far-reaching impacts on the finance and business sectors, as governments and private companies invest heavily in the autonomous mobility industry.
- With ambitious plans to extend its services to 15 additional cities worldwide in the next five years, WeRide's foray into the autonomous mobility domain could disrupt the automotive industry, potentially leading to a new era of smart transportation solutions.
