WeRide Begins Fully Driverless Robotaxi Trials in Abu Dhabi

On May 16, 2025, WeRide officially launched its fully driverless Robotaxi trials on the streets of Abu Dhabi, marking a new chapter in the UAE’s journey toward smart mobility. This makes WeRide the first company to operate autonomous vehicles on public roads in the emirate without a safety driver on board.

The rollout includes service expansion to Al Maryah Island—Abu Dhabi’s financial district and home to the Abu Dhabi Global Market—and Al Reem Island, a growing residential and lifestyle hub. These newly added zones build on WeRide’s ongoing operations across Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and the airport corridor, which have been active since 2021.

This advancement follows WeRide’s groundbreaking achievement in 2023, when it became the first company to receive a nationwide autonomous vehicle license from the UAE authorities, allowing full-scale testing and deployment across the country. The company is also playing a strategic role in the policy and infrastructure development of autonomous transport through its participation in Abu Dhabi’s Smart & Autonomous Systems Council.

Full commercial operations, including expanded routes, are expected to launch later in 2025, pending regulatory approvals. The move reflects Abu Dhabi’s strong commitment to fostering next-generation transport innovation, solidifying its position as a regional and global leader in autonomous mobility.