WeRide and Uber have launched Level 4 fully driverless Robotaxi services in Abu Dhabi, marking the first commercial deployment of driverless vehicles in the Middle East and the first city outside the United States to feature fully autonomous operations on the Uber platform. The rollout follows the issuance of the world’s first city-level permit for fully driverless Robotaxi services outside the U.S.

The launch represents a significant step toward scaling autonomous mobility in the UAE, enabled through collaboration with the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) and fleet operator Tawasul.

Public commercial service began today on Yas Island with no vehicle specialist on board. Passengers can request a WeRide Robotaxi through Uber Comfort or UberX, and via Uber’s new “Autonomous” category, the company’s first dedicated autonomous ride option globally. 

WeRide secured a federal permit for fully driverless commercial operations in October 2025, followed by an operational license from the ITC for the joint WeRide–Tawasul service.

With the commercial rollout and updated permits, WeRide and Uber expect the Abu Dhabi Robotaxi operation to move toward breakeven unit economics. Both companies plan to expand their Middle East presence, targeting a fleet of thousands of Robotaxis in the coming years.

WeRide has maintained a first-mover advantage in Abu Dhabi since launching Robotaxi operations in 2021. In 2023, it became the first company in the UAE to receive a national license covering all autonomous vehicle types, allowing testing and operation on public roads with emirate-level approvals.

WeRide and Uber began their Robotaxi partnership in December 2024, establishing what became the largest commercial Robotaxi service outside the U.S. and China. 

The service expanded in July 2025 to cover about half of Abu Dhabi’s core areas, including Al Reem and Al Maryah, with plans to extend further across the city by the end of 2025. WeRide currently operates more than 100 Robotaxis in the Middle East.