Uber has launched the first fully driverless robotaxi service outside the United States, offering Level 4 autonomous rides on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. Passengers can book these vehicles through UberX and Uber Comfort as well as a new “Autonomous” category.
Key Takeaways
- The launch was supported by the world’s first city-level fully driverless Robotaxi permit outside of the US, issued to WeRide and Uber in Abu Dhabi.
- WeRide-operated vehicles can now be booked via UberX, Uber Comfort, and a new “Autonomous” category.
- The service is part of a wider plan by WeRide and Uber to expand their autonomous vehicle footprint across the Middle East over the next few years.
Uber’s partnership with Chinese self-driving specialist WeRide began in December 2024, expanding to cover half of Abu Dhabi’s main urban districts in July 2025. Public commercial services have commenced on Yas Island using vehicles that received a federal permit in October 2025.
The robotaxi service is projected to reach breakeven unit economics according to the companies’ announcement, marking a significant milestone for autonomous vehicle technology adoption. The launch follows WeRide’s acquisition of a national license for all categories of self-driving vehicles in the UAE in 2023.
Uber and WeRide plan to scale up operations, aiming for several thousand robotaxis over the next few years. This expansion is part of their broader strategy to establish a strong presence in the Middle East’s rapidly growing autonomous vehicle market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can passengers book WeRide-operated vehicles?
Passengers in Abu Dhabi can now book WeRide-operated vehicles via UberX, Uber Comfort, and a newly created “Autonomous” category.
What is the significance of this launch for autonomous vehicle technology adoption?
The launch marks the first fully driverless robotaxi service outside the US, supported by a city-level permit issued to WeRide and Uber in Abu Dhabi. It represents a significant milestone towards achieving breakeven unit economics.
This initiative underscores the growing importance of autonomous vehicle technology in urban transportation solutions and sets a precedent for future deployments across the Middle East region.
