Chinese autonomous driving company WeRide has begun pilot operations of its Robotaxi GXR and Robobus services in Ras Al Khaimah, expanding its presence to a third emirate in the United Arab Emirates.
The launch, in partnership with the Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA), is part of the emirate’s Comprehensive Mobility Plan 2030 to create an integrated and sustainable transport network. WeRide’s Robobus will initially operate a nine-stop route on Al Marjan Island, while the Robotaxi GXR will serve residents in the city center. Commercial operations are scheduled to begin in early 2026.
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The program was inaugurated with His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, taking the first ride. He was joined by Chinese Ambassador Zhang Yiming and RAKTA Director General Esmaeel Hasan Alblooshi. “This partnership is an important step toward building a sustainable and smart transport system for the emirate,” Alblooshi said.
As part of the rollout, passengers will eventually be able to book rides and track vehicles via RAKTA’s mobility app. Safety officers will initially accompany rides, with a transition to fully driverless operation pending regulatory approval. A Memorandum of Understanding between RAKTA and WeRide outlines technical support, training, and regulatory collaboration.
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WeRide, which also operates in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, is the exclusive partner for Ras Al Khaimah’s autonomous transport strategy. The company said its technology will help enhance first- and last-mile connectivity, particularly for tourism hubs such as Al Marjan Island, while contributing to the development of autonomous vehicle standards in the emirate.
