Uber has officially launched its first international robotaxi service in Abu Dhabi, partnering with WeRide, a Chinese autonomous vehicle technology company. This significant development marks a major step for Uber as it seeks to integrate autonomous vehicles into its platform globally. The service will initially operate on designated routes connecting Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and Zayed International Airport. Customers can book rides through the Uber app, where they will have the option to hail a WeRide robotaxi. Although the service is not fully driverless at this stage, each vehicle will have a human safety operator onboard to ensure passenger safety and reliability.

The collaboration with WeRide is particularly noteworthy as it represents Uber's first foray into deploying autonomous vehicles outside the United States. WeRide, which went public on the Nasdaq in late October 2024, has been actively involved in developing self-driving technology and has obtained permits to operate driverless vehicles in various regions, including China and Singapore. The partnership aims to leverage WeRide's expertise in autonomous driving while providing Uber with an opportunity to diversify its mobility offerings. Initial reports indicate that fares for these robotaxi rides will be competitive, matching those of UberX and Uber Comfort services.

As part of this initiative, both companies are committed to transitioning to fully driverless operations by 2025. This timeline reflects the growing confidence in autonomous vehicle technology and the increasing demand for innovative transportation solutions. The presence of a safety driver during the initial phase is a standard practice in the rollout of autonomous services, allowing for real-time monitoring of vehicle performance and passenger interactions. This cautious approach aims to build trust among users while ensuring compliance with local regulations regarding autonomous vehicle operations.

The launch of robotaxis in Abu Dhabi aligns with the UAE's broader vision of becoming a leader in smart city infrastructure and advanced transportation systems. The Integrated Transport Centre of Abu Dhabi has been supportive of this initiative, recognizing the potential benefits of integrating autonomous vehicles into the public transport ecosystem. With Tawasul Transport managing fleet operations, the collaboration underscores a collective effort to enhance mobility solutions within the region. As both Uber and WeRide gather data from these initial deployments, they plan to refine their systems further, ensuring safety and efficiency as they scale their operations in Abu Dhabi and potentially beyond.