Abu Dhabi expands driverless taxi operations on Yas Island with new operator
Expansion planned next for Al Reem, Al Maryah and Al Saadiyat
ABU DHABI – The Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, has expanded commercial operations of autonomous taxi services on Yas Island.
The initiative is taking place under the supervision of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council and marks a new stage in Abu Dhabi’s gradual rollout of driverless mobility solutions.
The expansion is being delivered in collaboration with Apollo Go, the autonomous mobility subsidiary of Baidu. Autogo, a subsidiary of K2, has joined the ecosystem as a local operator, broadening the operational network and supporting the emirate’s strategy to diversify operators while strengthening service readiness.
Growing network
The development follows the successful completion of testing and operational trials on Yas Island, allowing the service to transition to commercial operations for Level 4 autonomous taxis.
The expanded service enables passengers to request autonomous rides across Yas Island through the AutoGo smart application, which is available on both Android and Apple app stores. The app-based platform provides users with access to driverless transport as part of Abu Dhabi’s evolving smart mobility network.
Authorities have confirmed that the autonomous taxi programme will gradually expand beyond Yas Island. Future phases are planned to include Al Reem Island, Al Maryah Island and Al Saadiyat Island, extending driverless mobility services to additional key districts in the capital.
The move reflects Abu Dhabi Mobility’s broader role in facilitating the adoption of advanced transport technologies by establishing regulatory frameworks and operational standards that prioritise safety and efficiency.
Regulatory push
Hamad Adel Al Afeefi, Executive Director of the Intelligent Transportation Systems Sector at Abu Dhabi Mobility, said the addition of a new operator represents an important milestone in regulating and developing the emirate’s smart mobility ecosystem.
He noted that welcoming another operator reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as an attractive destination for advanced technologies and demonstrates the readiness of the regulatory and operational frameworks supporting the commercial deployment of Level 4 autonomous vehicles.
According to officials, the rollout aligns with Abu Dhabi’s long-term vision to build an integrated and sustainable transport system powered by smart technologies.
Public access
Waleed Alblooshi, Vice President of Strategy at K2, said the launch of operations reflects the company’s focus on implementation and long-term impact within the autonomous mobility sector.
He added that free rides offered during the current phase allow residents and visitors to experience autonomous transport as a practical option for daily travel. The initiative is expected to help familiarise the public with driverless mobility while laying the groundwork for the next stage of structured commercial expansion.