Robotaxi WeRide is now accessible via the Uber app, as announced by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) on Thursday, December 11.
“Customers can book WeRide Robotaxi through the Uber app in Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah, two key areas in Dubai near public beaches. Users just need to select the ‘Autonomous’ service option,” said Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO of RTA’s Public Transport Agency.
During the pilot phase, a driver will still be present in the self-driving taxis.
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“Currently, the WeRide service operates with a specialist driver to ensure safety and reliability, paving the way for a fully driverless service by early 2026,” Bahrozyan explained.
He further mentioned: “This launch is part of a joint pilot program with RTA and WeRide. Since the partnership in April 2025, rigorous testing has been conducted to ensure a seamless transition to autonomous mobility solutions.”
The RTA emphasized that this pilot supports Dubai’s Self-Driving Transport Strategy, aiming to convert 25% of trips to autonomous modes by 2030.
WeRide claims to currently operate around 150 autonomous vehicles in the Middle East. Jennifer Li, chief financial officer and head of international at WeRide, stated: “Our progress in Dubai is powered by our globally tested and validated autonomous driving technology. We are rapidly expanding in the Middle East and globally, aiming to deploy tens of thousands of Robotaxis by 2030.
“We are delighted to partner with forward-thinking regulators like RTA and Uber, whose global platform will help speed up the adoption of driverless transportation,” Li added.
Dubai’s population continues to rise, now surpassing four million residents.
Last year, Dubai’s transport network facilitated over 153 million trips across public transport, taxis, and shared mobility services, including app-based vehicle bookings. Demand for shared mobility increased by 28% compared to 2023, “creating a favorable environment for the growth of autonomous vehicle services in the future,” noted RTA.
