Abu Dhabi rolls out driverless robotaxis – here’s how to book it
Autonomous vehicles to transform UAE’s daily travel experience
ABU DHABI – Abu Dhabi has officially rolled into a new era of transport with the launch of fully driverless robotaxi rides on the Uber platform.
Riders can now hail an autonomous vehicle on Yas Island without any driver or specialist on board, making the UAE the first region outside the United States to offer this service commercially.
Developed by WeRide in partnership with Uber, this Level 4 autonomous technology is available under Uber Comfort, UberX and a new ‘Autonomous’ category, making it a global first on the app.
The service operates from 10am to 4pm and offers seamless trips for both residents and visitors, especially around popular destinations on Yas Island. With over 100 robotaxis deployed across the Middle East, the initiative forms part of a larger plan to expand to Abu Dhabi’s core areas, including Al Reem and Al Maryah, by the end of 2025.
Driverless robotaxis arrive in Abu Dhabi
This robotaxi service uses Level 4 autonomous technology, meaning the vehicle drives itself without a human inside. It is electrically powered and uses advanced sensors, cameras and mapping systems to navigate roads, detect obstacles and respond to traffic conditions in real time.
The concept aims to transform everyday mobility while supporting the UAE’s smart city vision and sustainable transport goals.
How to book it
Booking a driverless ride is similar to requesting any Uber trip. Riders open the Uber app and select either Uber Comfort, UberX or the ‘Autonomous’ category. If a robotaxi is available, the app matches the user to one of WeRide's autonomous vehicles. Once confirmed, passengers simply hop in and enjoy an entirely driverless journey, with no specialist inside the car.
When can you ride?
Currently, public trips are available daily between 10am and 4pm, starting on Yas Island. Availability is expected to expand to cover half of Abu Dhabi’s core areas, including Al Reem and Al Maryah, by July 2025, with wider access across the city by the end of the same year.
Is it safe?
The service is backed by the world’s first city-level fully driverless Robotaxi permit outside the US, granted by Abu Dhabi’s Integrated Transport Centre after rigorous testing.
WeRide has operated autonomous vehicles in Abu Dhabi since 2021, steadily building regulatory confidence in safety, reliability and performance.
For UAE residents, this means faster, cleaner and convenient travel with no need for a human driver. It could boost accessibility for elderly and disabled passengers, reduce wait times, cut transport costs and help lower accident risks by eliminating human error.