Uber has taken a significant step towards a driverless future by launching its first international robotaxi service in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Partnering with WeRide, a leading autonomous vehicle (AV) company, Uber now offers customers the option to book a ride in a self-driving car directly through its app.
This marks Uber’s initial effort to integrate autonomous vehicles from various operators into its platform outside the United States, showcasing its commitment to expanding the possibilities of ride-hailing technology.
How the service works
When you book a ride in Abu Dhabi using the Uber app, you can hail an autonomous vehicle from WeRide. The fare for these robotaxi rides will match the pricing of UberX and Uber Comfort, providing a familiar and affordable choice for riders.
At launch, these vehicles will include safety drivers to monitor operations and ensure passengers’ smooth and secure experience. However, Uber and WeRide have set their sights on introducing fully driverless rides by 2025, paving the way for a more autonomous future.
WeRide, a Guangzhou-based startup, has been a key player in the autonomous vehicle space. The company holds driverless operation permits in several countries, including the UAE, Singapore, China, and the United States. However, Uber has clarified that the partnership is limited to Abu Dhabi.
A growing presence in autonomous technology
WeRide’s journey in the UAE began in July 2023 when it secured a permit to test and operate its AVs on public roads. Since then, WeRide’s robotaxis has been available in Abu Dhabi through the TXAI app. The collaboration with Uber now brings these vehicles to a broader audience.
In addition to its robotaxi services, WeRide develops self-driving technology for shuttle buses and freight equipment. Founded in Silicon Valley in 2017, the company later incorporated in the Cayman Islands. Despite its ambitious plans to go public in the United States with a US$5 billion valuation, WeRide’s initial public offering has been delayed as the company completes its documentation.
Uber’s partnership with WeRide aligns with its broader strategy of serving as a global hub for autonomous vehicle operations. After ending its self-driving car development in 2020, Uber has shifted its focus to forming alliances with leading AV companies. In addition to WeRide, Uber has partnerships with Cruise, Waymo, Motional, and Avride for passenger transport and Serve, Cartken, and Nuro for delivery services.
Looking ahead
Introducing this robotaxi service highlights Uber’s dedication to exploring innovative ways to enhance mobility while adapting to the growing demand for autonomous technology. With plans to go fully driverless in two years, Uber and WeRide are setting the stage for what could be the future of transportation in cities worldwide.
For now, you can experience the convenience of riding in a Robotaxi while enjoying the reassurance of a safe driver. As this service grows, it’s set to bring a new dimension to how we travel, starting with Abu Dhabi as the testing ground for Uber’s ambitious global plans.