Driverless Uber robotaxis start operating in Dubai
Dubai residents can now book a WeRide Dubai robotaxi through Uber as fully driverless robotaxi services have started in the emirate. This marks a commercial advancement in autonomous mobility under the oversight of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and supports Dubai’s 2030 target to shift 25% of journeys to autonomous transport.
| Milestone | Confirmed target/date |
|---|---|
| Dubai fully driverless robotaxi service started | April, 2026 |
| Regional fleet plan announced by WeRide and Uber | 1,200 robotaxis across the Middle East by 2030 |
| Dubai policy goal for autonomy share | 25% of journeys autonomous by 2030 |
Impact on daily trips and how rides will be managed
The Uber WeRide driverless Dubai rollout is part of Dubai’s regulated transport framework, managed by the RTA. This framework oversees staged deployments for new mobility services and links operations to specific service areas, safety protocols, and incident handling procedures throughout the city’s road network.
The Dubai rollout is recognized as the first commercial Level 4 robotaxi service worldwide, placing Dubai at the forefront of high-autonomy passenger transport. The service operates without a driver, with no safety driver present during passenger trips booked through the Uber app.
The regional scale plan, featuring 1,200 robotaxis across the Middle East by 2030, positions Dubai as the launchpad for cross-border expansion. This expansion must be localized for each market’s road rules, telecom requirements, and insurance structures. Meanwhile, Dubai’s own 2030 autonomy target maintains pressure on integration with RTA’s multimodal network.
At a glance
- Operators: WeRide and Uber
- Service type: Fully driverless robotaxi rides in Dubai
- Policy alignment: RTA-linked push toward 25% autonomous journeys by 2030
- Regional scale goal: 1,200 robotaxis across the Middle East by 2030
- Public signal: Dubai moves from pilots to live driverless operations
The launch was positioned as a commercial step beyond pilot programmes, with operations taking place under RTA oversight and permit conditions.
Also ReadAndy Burnham's UK Policy ApproachCheck your Uber app for the robotaxi option before you travel, and confirm the pickup point. Also note that booking only available in specific places before city wide
