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Highlights

  • Uber and WeRide collaborate with RTA to launch autonomous vehicle services in Dubai
  • The partnership aligns with Dubai's goal to transform 25% of trips into autonomous journeys by 2030
  • WeRide’s AV technology will be integrated into Uber’s platform for a seamless rider experience

Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: UBER) and WeRide (NASDAQ: WRD) have partnered with Dubai's Road and Transport Authority (RTA) to introduce autonomous vehicles (AVs) into the city’s transportation ecosystem. This collaboration is a significant step in realizing Dubai’s Self-Driving Transport Strategy, which aims to convert 25% of all trips in the city to autonomous journeys across different transport modes by 2030. WeRide, an autonomous vehicle technology provider, will serve as the first technology partner in this initiative.

His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, emphasized the importance of this partnership in advancing Dubai's vision for autonomous mobility. The collaboration will support RTA's ongoing efforts to integrate self-driving technology into the city, building on trials initiated in 2016.

Noah Zych, Uber’s Global Head of Autonomous Mobility and Delivery Operations, highlighted the significance of this partnership, stating that Uber aims to bring AVs to riders in Dubai, starting with WeRide’s technology. This move is expected to enhance mobility solutions in the region, aligning with Dubai’s ambitions for smart cities and future transport infrastructure.

The agreement between Uber, WeRide, and RTA will see the launch of pilot programs to match riders with AVs using Uber’s technology, ensuring a seamless user experience. The partnership will also explore data insights, safety protocols, and regulatory frameworks to facilitate the transition to autonomous mobility in Dubai.

WeRide’s successful commercial launch of AVs in Abu Dhabi on Uber's platform in December 2024 marks another milestone in the company’s expansion in the Middle East, underscoring the region's growing focus on autonomous technology.