Chinese autonomous driving technology company WeRide (NASDAQ: WRD) has launched its first fully unmanned robotaxi pilot operations in Abu Dhabi, marking the debut of the Middle East’s first driverless robotaxi fleet, the company said on Saturday.
The announcement comes after WeRide began offering robotaxi rides with onboard safety officers in Abu Dhabi in December 2024. The pilot program has now shifted to a completely unmanned format, with expanded coverage to Al Maryah Island and Al Reem Island, two high-demand business and residential areas in the capital.
See also: WeRide Expands Driverless Robotaxi Operations in Beijing with GXR Model
“This validates WeRide’s technological maturity and will propel the company towards large-scale commercial use of robotaxis,” said Xuan Li, WeRide’s CFO and head of international business.
Founded in 2017, WeRide was among the first Chinese companies to specialize in high-level autonomous driving systems. It went public on Nasdaq in October 2024 and has since accelerated its global footprint through strategic partnerships.
In September 2024, WeRide entered into a collaboration with Uber to bring its robotaxis to the ride-hailing platform. That partnership launched services in Abu Dhabi in December, and was extended to Dubai last month. Earlier this month, both companies announced plans to expand their cooperation to 15 additional cities worldwide over the next five years, including locations in Europe and the Middle East.
See also: WeRide Unveils Robovan W5, a Level 4 Autonomous Delivery Vehicle for Urban Logistics
WeRide is currently developing and testing its autonomous vehicle technologies in 30 cities across 10 countries, underscoring its growing role in the global push toward self-driving transportation.