Dubai is poised to become one of the first cities globally to integrate fully autonomous vehicles into its public transportation network. According to recent announcements from dubai’s Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, the emirate will begin launching self-driving vehicle services next month, signaling a major step toward its enterprising Dubai Smart self-Driving Transport Strategy. The initiative aims to have a quarter of all trips completed via autonomous vehicles by 2030,with current trials underway in key districts like Umm Suqeim adn Jumeirah.
DUBAI – The United Arab Emirates is set to launch self-driving vehicle services next month, according to Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s Crown Prince and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council. The move signals Dubai’s ambition to become a global leader in smart transportation and innovation.
To advertise here,
Sheikh Hamdan stated that the introduction of advanced transportation methods will contribute to a safer and more efficient future for Dubai’s roadways. The initiative aims to promote sustainable and smart transportation options that enhance the overall quality of life for residents. “This is just the beginning of our journey towards the future, and the best is yet to come for Dubai,” he said, sharing a video on Instagram of a ride in a Baidu Apollo Go autonomous vehicle.
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) plans to deploy 100 driverless taxis in collaboration with Pony.AI, Uber, and Baidu Apollo Go. WeRide, an autonomous vehicle technology company, has announced plans to deploy approximately 1200 robotaxis across the UAE and Saudi Arabia by the end of next year.
The robotaxis are slated to operate in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Riyadh, and will be accessible through the Uber app. Currently, over 200 robotaxis are already operating in these areas. Authorities intend to expand the fleet of robotaxis in the future to support the commercial operation of driverless vehicles. The RTA announced in December that WeRide’s robotaxis would be available on the Uber app.
Self-driving vehicles are currently undergoing trial runs in Dubai’s Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah districts. The emirate aims to have autonomous vehicles account for 25% of all trips by 2030. This ambitious goal reflects Dubai’s commitment to embracing cutting-edge technology and transforming its transportation infrastructure.
Published: 07 Feb 2026, 01:14 am IST
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Disclaimer: Kindly avoid objectionable, derogatory, unlawful and lewd comments, while responding to reports. Such comments are punishable under cyber laws. Please keep away from personal attacks. The opinions expressed here are the personal opinions of readers and not that of Mathrubhumi.
