Uber increases stake in WeRide as robotaxi partnership ramps up in Dubai

Uber has taken a significant step in the realm of autonomous transportation by launching robotaxi services in Dubai, eliminating the need for a human safety operator. This initiative is part of the company's strategic expansion within the Middle East, allowing users to book fully autonomous vehicles directly through the Uber app. The robotaxi service is operational in various key areas, including commercial and industrial districts such as Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai Investment Park Second, and Jabal Ali Industrial First, alongside suburban locales and the bustling maritime hub of Al Hamriya Port. Locally, Tawasul, a mobility and fleet management firm in the UAE, oversees the operations. Previously, the companies tested their robotaxi concept in December under a pilot program that required a human operator and did not charge passengers. However, the recent issuance of a driverless vehicle trial permit by the Roads and Transport Authority marks a pivotal moment for WeRide's operations in the region. As part of this evolving partnership, Uber has increased its investment in WeRide to 5.82%, valued at approximately $400 million, according to recent filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. "Launching fully driverless vehicles in Dubai signifies a crucial achievement in our journey towards global autonomous mobility," stated Sarfraz Maredia, Uber's global head of autonomous mobility and delivery. He emphasized the company's commitment to the UAE and its vision of integrating drivers with autonomous vehicles for a more efficient transportation network. In a notable investment move, Uber committed $100 million to WeRide in May 2025, aimed at expanding robotaxi services to an additional 15 cities over the next five years, including plans for growth in Europe. Under this partnership, users can access WeRide's robotaxi services via the Uber platform, similar to Uber's existing collaboration with Waymo, where Uber manages network routing and fleet operations while WeRide focuses on the autonomous technology.