Uber Introduces Self-Driving Taxis in Abu Dhabi
First launching in Saadiyat and Yas Island, the vehicles will initially have a safety operator at the wheel, with full autonomy planned by 2025.
Uber has introduced its first international driverless taxi service in partnership with China’s WeRide. The service, currently available on Saadiyat and Yas Island, also includes routes to Zayed International Airport. Riders using UberX or Uber Comfort may be matched with a WeRide autonomous vehicle (AV), operated by local transport company Tawasul.
WeRide’s technology integrates LiDAR, radar, and cameras to create 3D maps, detect obstacles, and adhere to traffic laws. The vehicles continuously learn to navigate complex scenarios, including pedestrian tracking and sudden obstacles.
The goal is for each vehicle to be equipped with a safety operator at the wheel, though Uber aims to transition to fully driverless rides by 2025.