Abu Dhabi has taken another big step in its smart transport journey. The Integrated Transport Centre has expanded the driverless taxi network to cover Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands, two of the busiest residential and business hubs in the city. This move is part of the emirate’s strategy to make 25 percent of all trips based on smart mobility by 2040. The expansion builds on services already operating in Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, and Zayed International Airport, meaning that nearly half of the city’s core areas are now within reach of autonomous taxis.
The addition of Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands is more than just a geographic expansion. These locations are known for heavy traffic and complex road networks, making them ideal testing grounds for driverless technology. By operating in such areas, Abu Dhabi can measure how autonomous vehicles handle real-world challenges while offering safer and more efficient transport.
The driverless taxi project began in December 2024 on the Uber platform and has already tripled in size. Authorities confirmed that further expansion will soon include other parts of Abu Dhabi Island, moving the city closer to its smart mobility vision.
Abu Dhabi is the first city in the MENA region to launch a commercial driverless taxi service. The fleet currently stands at 44 vehicles, powered by partnerships with WeRide, Uber, and local operator Tawasul Transport.
WeRide operates its largest fleet outside the US and China in Abu Dhabi, with executives pointing to the new service areas as proof of the technology’s strength. Uber’s regional head also noted that customer interest has been strong, reflecting growing trust in autonomous mobility.
Officials highlighted that these partnerships are key to scaling the service further across the city. Backed by both global and local players, Abu Dhabi continues to position itself as a leader in future mobility across the Middle East.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.
SHARE
