Uber and WeRide ramp up robotaxi operations in Dubai

Uber, in collaboration with the Chinese autonomous vehicle firm WeRide, has officially launched its fully driverless robotaxi service in Dubai. This significant move marks a key step in the companies' expansion throughout the Middle East, allowing riders to book these autonomous vehicles directly through the Uber app. The robotaxi operations are currently available in various commercial and industrial zones, including Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai Investment Park Second, and Jabal Ali Industrial First. Additionally, suburban areas and the maritime trading hub of Al Hamriya Port are part of the service area. Tawasul, a local mobility and fleet operator, oversees the deployment of the service in the United Arab Emirates. Previously, the robotaxi initiative was introduced in Dubai as a pilot program last December, where rides were complimentary and operated with a human safety driver present. However, a recent permit issued by the Roads and Transport Authority now allows for the operation of fully driverless vehicles. This development signifies a notable advancement in WeRide's robotaxi operations and underscores Uber's ongoing investment in this technology. Uber currently holds a 5.82% ownership stake in WeRide, valued at approximately $150 million based on the latest stock prices. The partnership reflects Uber's deep commitment to the UAE and its vision of integrating autonomous vehicles into everyday mobility. Sarfraz Maredia, Uber’s global head of autonomous mobility and delivery, emphasized the importance of this launch, stating, "Bringing fully driverless vehicles to Dubai is an important milestone in making autonomous mobility a global reality." He added that the initiative aims to create a resilient transportation network, especially in light of regional challenges. In May 2025, Uber increased its investment in WeRide as part of a broader strategy to extend robotaxi services to an additional 15 cities over the next five years, including plans for expansion into Europe. This collaboration mirrors Uber's existing partnership with Waymo, where Uber manages network routing and fleet operations while WeRide focuses on the development of autonomous vehicle technology.