- Updated: November 26, 2025
- 2 min read
Uber and WeRide Launch Fully Driverless Robotaxi Service in UAE’s Yas Island
Uber and WeRide Launch Fully Driverless Robotaxi Service in UAE’s Yas Island
Uber has taken another bold step into autonomous mobility by partnering with Chinese self‑driving pioneer WeRide to roll out a fully driverless robotaxi fleet on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island. The service, which started operations this week, marks the first large‑scale deployment of Level‑4 autonomous taxis in the United Arab Emirates.
Key Highlights
- Partnership: Uber and WeRide combine Uber’s ride‑hailing platform with WeRide’s autonomous vehicle technology.
- Location: The fleet operates on Yas Island, a tourism hotspot home to Ferrari World, Yas Marina Circuit and luxury resorts.
- Vehicle Specs: The robotaxis are based on the WeRide‑U (formerly WeRide‑U), a five‑seat electric vehicle equipped with LiDAR, cameras, and radar for full‑time autonomous navigation.
- Service Model: Passengers can request rides via the Uber app, selecting the “Driverless” option. The vehicles operate without a safety driver, monitored remotely by Uber’s safety team.
- Future Expansion: Uber plans to extend the driverless service to other parts of the UAE and eventually to additional markets worldwide.
Why This Matters
The launch demonstrates the rapid maturation of autonomous‑vehicle technology and highlights the UAE’s commitment to becoming a global hub for smart mobility. By integrating WeRide’s Level‑4 system, Uber can offer a truly hands‑free experience, reducing operational costs and paving the way for broader adoption of robotaxis.
Industry Context
Globally, companies such as Waymo, Cruise, and Baidu are racing to commercialise driverless rides. Uber’s collaboration with WeRide gives it a unique foothold in the Middle East, a region that is heavily investing in AI‑driven transportation infrastructure.
Read the Full Story
For the original reporting, see The Verge article.
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