In a groundbreaking move for the ridesharing industry, Uber has officially launched its first robotaxi service outside the United States in Abu Dhabi. The service, which rolled out on December 6, 2024, marks a significant milestone for both Uber and its partner, WeRide, as they introduce autonomous mobility in the Middle East. Riders can now hail autonomous vehicles via the Uber app in designated areas, with plans to expand the service further across the city. According to Uber’s Chief Product Officer, Daisuke Onishi, ‘This is an exciting step towards integrating safe and reliable autonomous transportation into urban environments.’ The service utilizes advanced technology and operates with high safety standards, ensuring a seamless experience for users. This pioneering initiative is part of Uber’s broader strategy to increase its footprint in international markets and innovate within the mobility sector. As Uber and WeRide continue to pave the way for autonomous vehicle integration, stakeholders from both companies are optimistic about the future impact on transportation in urban settings worldwide. In the words of WeRide CEO, Tony Han, ‘We are proud to partner with Uber in launching this service, which represents the future of transportation in major cities.’ With this launch, Abu Dhabi becomes a key player in the global shift towards self-driving technologies and could pave the way for similar initiatives in neighboring regions.
Uber Launches First Robotaxi Service Outside of the U.S. in Abu Dhabi
