WeRide & Uber Launch Self-Driving Taxi Service in Abu Dhabi | 2026 Expansion

February 13, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom News

Abu Dhabi has become the first city in the Middle East to launch a commercial robotaxi service, marking a significant step in the development and deployment of autonomous vehicle technology. The service, a collaboration between Chinese tech firm WeRide and Uber, began operation on Thursday, February 13, 2026.

Autonomous Taxis Hit the Streets

The new service is currently available in key areas of Abu Dhabi, including the Corniche Abu Dhabi and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It covers approximately 70 percent of the city’s main districts, with planned expansions into Khalifa City, Masdar City, and Rabdan. The launch is supported by the Integrated Transport Centre of the Department of Municipalities and Transport in Abu Dhabi.

A Growing Partnership

WeRide stated that the expansion of the robotaxi service highlights the rapid growth of its partnership with Uber within the United Arab Emirates. This collaboration supports the country’s vision for smart mobility solutions.

Did You Know? WeRide was founded in 2017 and has since conducted autonomous driving research, development, testing, and operations in over 40 cities across 11 countries.

The companies plan to increase their fleet of self-driving taxis in the Middle East to at least 1200 vehicles by 2027. This expansion will include operations in major cities such as Dubai and Riyadh, in addition to Abu Dhabi, according to a cooperative plan agreed upon in February 2026.

Regional Expansion Underway

WeRide currently provides robotaxis and autonomous buses, as well as advanced driver-assistance solutions. The company has already deployed over 200 robotaxis in the Middle East region.

Expert Insight: The introduction of commercial robotaxi services represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of transportation. While challenges related to public acceptance, regulatory frameworks, and technological refinement remain, this deployment signals a growing confidence in the viability of autonomous vehicle technology for public use.

A possible next step could involve further expansion of the service area within Abu Dhabi and the other planned cities. Analysts expect that the success of this initial phase will be crucial in attracting further investment and accelerating the adoption of autonomous vehicles throughout the region. It is also likely that the companies will continue to refine the technology and address any operational challenges that arise.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did WeRide and Uber launch this service?

WeRide and Uber launched the commercial robotaxi service on Thursday, February 13, 2026.

Where is the robotaxi service currently available?

The service is currently available in key areas of Abu Dhabi, including the Corniche Abu Dhabi and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, covering approximately 70 percent of the city’s main districts.

How many robotaxis do the companies plan to deploy by 2027?

The companies plan to increase their fleet of self-driving taxis in the Middle East to at least 1200 vehicles by 2027.

How might the widespread adoption of robotaxis reshape urban transportation in the coming years?