WeRide Drives Autonomous Future Across the Middle East with Uber Partnership
Dubai,UAE – Chinese autonomous driving technology firm WeRide is rapidly expanding its Robotaxi services throughout the Middle East,solidifying its position as a leader in the region’s burgeoning autonomous mobility sector. A key partnership with Uber is fueling this growth, bringing fully driverless transportation closer to reality for residents and visitors alike.
The collaboration reached a meaningful milestone recently with the launch of a dedicated “Autonomous” ride-hailing category within the Uber app in Abu Dhabi. This marks a global first for uber, with WeRide being the exclusive Robotaxi provider integrated into the platform. Users in Abu Dhabi can now directly request a WeRide Robotaxi, capable of carrying up to five passengers, with pricing comparable to Uber’s Comfort tier.
as integrating with Uber, WeRide has seen a 20% increase in weekly ride requests, demonstrating growing consumer acceptance and accelerating the commercial viability of Robotaxi services.the network currently covers key areas including Yas, Saadiyat, Al Reem, and Al Maryah Islands, alongside routes serving Zayed International Airport.
WeRide’s journey in Abu Dhabi began with pilot programs in 2021, evolving into a formal strategic agreement with Uber in September 2024. Initially, Uber utilized a hybrid dispatch system, occasionally matching riders with WeRide vehicles. The new dedicated category streamlines the process and substantially expands access.
Beyond Abu Dhabi, WeRide is aggressively pursuing expansion across the region. A three-party agreement with Uber and Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) was announced in April 2025,followed by a pilot permit secured from the RTA. Full driverless operations are anticipated in Dubai by 2026. Further demonstrating its regional commitment, WeRide secured Saudi Arabia’s first autonomous driving license in July, opening the door for pilot programs in Riyadh, including service at King Khalid International Airport.
Looking to the future, WeRide plans to scale its Middle Eastern fleet to between 500 and 1,000 vehicles in the short term, with a long-term vision of deploying tens of thousands of Robotaxis by 2030. The company believes this expansion will be instrumental in building a sustainable and innovative autonomous transportation ecosystem throughout the region. WeRide’s commitment, coupled with Uber’s reach, positions the two companies to reshape urban mobility in the Middle East and beyond.
