The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) of the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) in Abu Dhabi has recently released a progress report showcasing the successful advancement of its smart transport pilot program, particularly in the realm of autonomous vehicles. The emirate’s initiative, which commenced in late 2021, has garnered positive results and is poised to accelerate the integration of self-driving technologies into its transportation infrastructure.
The pilot program, implemented on Yas Island and Saadiyat Island, features the debut of the United Arab Emirates’ first fleet of autonomous taxis known as TXAI. These self-driving cabs, owned by local company Bayanat, have been hailed as a significant milestone in the region’s pursuit of innovative and sustainable transport solutions.
Driving the automated capabilities of these taxis is a comprehensive suite of full-stack software and hardware, coupled with cutting-edge operating and monitoring systems provided by Chinese autonomous technology firm WeRide. Notably, WeRide recently secured a groundbreaking license for nationwide testing of their autonomous systems in the UAE, marking a remarkable achievement in the global autonomous vehicle landscape.
The initial launch of five self-driving taxis in November 2021, followed by an additional three a year later, has been met with resounding success. The ITC reports that these autonomous taxis have introduced a “revolutionary” change in local transportation, garnering enthusiastic support from both residents and tourists alike.
With over 5,000 registered users and more than 17,000 completed journeys, the autonomous taxi service has proven its viability and appeal. Adding to Abu Dhabi’s growing autonomous fleet, the inclusion of four mini robobuses, also utilizing WeRide technology, further reinforces the emirate’s commitment to advancing smart transport solutions.
H.E. Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the DMT, lauded the project’s significance, emphasizing its alignment with Abu Dhabi’s long-term vision of becoming a smart city with sustainable growth. Al Shorafa highlighted the collaboration between government and private sector partners as pivotal to establishing a cohesive and sustainable transport network.
The success of the autonomous taxi fleet has paved the way for the next phase of development, which entails rigorous testing in the sweltering summer conditions of Abu Dhabi. This testing will involve an increased number of passengers, providing valuable insights into the vehicles’ performance and capabilities under challenging circumstances.
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WeRide, the technology provider for the autonomous taxis, expressed their enthusiasm for the Middle East market. The company’s spokesperson emphasized that obtaining the first national-level license in the UAE will expedite their local development efforts, underscoring the Middle East as a key target market for their autonomous solutions.
In parallel to the advancement of the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system, Abu Dhabi is also focusing on the creation of a digital twin. This advanced digital simulation will facilitate technical infrastructure development, supported by cloud-based data storage and processing, enabling the emirate to harness data-driven insights for optimal transport solutions.
As Abu Dhabi accelerates its journey toward autonomous transport, its progress remains closely tied to its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and smart city development. The positive reception and tangible results from the autonomous taxi project herald a promising future for self-driving technologies in the emirate’s transportation landscape.
