Dubai has taken a major step into the future of transportation with the launch of autonomous robotaxis. Now, residents and visitors can book a self-driving taxi in key areas of the city using the Uber app. This new initiative brings convenience, safety, and innovation to the streets of Dubai.
How to Book a Dubai Robotaxi
Booking a robotaxi is simple. Open the Uber app in the Umm Suqeim or Jumeirah areas and select the ‘Autonomous’ option. During the trial phase, a safety driver will be present in the vehicle to ensure a smooth and secure journey. This phase is an important step before the full driverless launch planned for early 2026.
Collaboration Between Uber and WeRide
The robotaxi service is a result of a collaboration between Uber and the Chinese autonomous vehicle company, WeRide. Both companies have tested the service extensively since it was first announced in April 2025. The trial ensures that passengers experience a safe and efficient ride while preparing for a fully driverless service in the near future.
WeRide currently operates around 150 autonomous vehicles in the Middle East, including more than 100 robotaxis. The partnership with Uber is expected to expand their presence, with thousands of autonomous vehicles planned for deployment across the region in the coming years.
Why Dubai is Investing in Self-Driving Taxis
Dubai’s move toward autonomous transport is part of its larger Dubai Autonomous Transportation Strategy. The goal is for 25 percent of all public transport journeys to be driverless by 2030.
The strategy aims to reduce traffic accidents by 12 percent, increase productivity by 13 percent, and generate around Dhs22 billion in economic benefits. These savings come from reduced transportation costs, increased efficiency in the transport sector, and fewer hours wasted in conventional travel.
Autonomous taxis also enhance road safety by minimizing human error, which accounts for over 90 percent of traffic accidents. Additionally, they serve a broad segment of the community, including senior citizens and people of determination, offering safer and more convenient mobility options.
Benefits of Dubai’s Robotaxi Service
The introduction of robotaxis provides multiple benefits for the city:
Enhanced Connectivity
Autonomous taxis help improve first and last-mile connectivity. They make it easier for public transport users to travel from their origin to the nearest transit station, aligning with Dubai’s First and Last-Mile Strategy.
Reduced Traffic and Emissions
With a target of 4,000 driverless taxis on the roads, Dubai expects to ease congestion and lower carbon emissions. Fewer conventional cars will mean smoother traffic flow and cleaner air.
Increased Safety
By removing the risk of human error, self-driving taxis contribute to safer roads. This aligns with Dubai’s vision of becoming a global leader in smart, safe, and efficient transportation.
The Future of Autonomous Travel in Dubai
Dubai’s autonomous taxi project is just the beginning of a wider transformation. The city envisions thousands of driverless vehicles operating across its streets, offering residents and visitors convenient, efficient, and safe travel options.
As technology continues to improve, fully autonomous robotaxis will become a common sight, redefining urban mobility. Dubai’s proactive approach demonstrates its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and world-class public transportation.
Riders can look forward to a seamless, futuristic travel experience while enjoying the confidence of tested and reliable autonomous technology.
How to Experience the Future Today
Anyone in the Umm Suqeim or Jumeirah areas can experience this cutting-edge service by simply selecting the ‘Autonomous’ option in the Uber app. The current trial phase with a safety driver ensures that every journey is secure, comfortable, and ready for the next step into a fully driverless future.
Dubai’s robotaxi initiative is more than just a ride—it’s a glimpse into the future of smart cities, where technology meets convenience, safety, and sustainability. By 2026, self-driving taxis are expected to become a key part of daily transport for residents and tourists alike, creating a new era in urban mobility.
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