As revealed by the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority, soon the emirate will begin its journey in the sector of smart mobility. Yes, announced on Sunday, June 15, it has signed a landmark memorandum of understanding with Uber Technologies Inc. and WeRide. As a result, pilot operations for self-driving taxis will begin this year.
Dubai RTA To Introduce Driverless Taxis
As revealed in a report by the Dubai Media Office, Dubai RTA has signed a memorandum of understanding with the aforementioned companies. With the signing, it is expected that the pilot operations for autonomous taxis or driverless taxis are expected to begin later this year. In fact, these trials will also, in turn, make way for full-scale driverless commercial rollout of such taxis in Dubai, which is planned for 2026.
25% Of All Trips Autonomous By 2030
As it happens, it’s a part of Dubai’s vision to make 25% of all trips autonomous by 2030. This announcement comes at a time when there is an expansion of partnerships with major global AV technology providers with Dubai RTA. A part of the city’s self-driving transport strategy, the emirate aims to make the city a testing ground for next-generation mobility solutions.
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Robotaxis Were Launched In 2021
It’s worth mentioning that this collaboration comes as part of the first and last mile strategy of the Dubai RTA. Moreover, it has been designed to streamline travel between the starting or end point of a commuter’s travel to the public transport stations. Robotaxis were launched in Abu Dhabi back in 2021 by WeRide. And now deepening its presence in the UAE, it’s collaborating with the RTA to make Dubai a regional hub for autonomous vehicles.
But the next question arises: why should one use such robotaxis? Well, these, as explained by RTA, might serve as a critical tool to reduce traffic accidents. After all, 90% of the accidents happened due to human error. Not to mention, it also expands access to transportation for the elderly, people of determination, and others who face limited mobility.
So by 2026, you can expect to see the streets featuring driverless taxis.
Cover Image Courtesy: X/WeRide_ai