The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced the start of commercial operations of autonomous taxis in Dubai. The RTA initiative begins in Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah, in partnership with Apollo Go and WeRide.

The vehicles are available to the public through the Uber app. Meanwhile, Tawasul Transport manages fleet operations. In addition, Apollo Go, a subsidiary of Baidu, provides services through its dedicated app in collaboration with Dubai Taxi Company.

This rollout reflects Dubai’s continued focus on smart mobility. It also highlights the emirate’s commitment to turning strategic plans into real projects. Furthermore, it supports the goals of the Dubai Self-Driving Transport Strategy.

At the same time, the move strengthens Dubai’s position as a global hub for autonomous driving companies. The city offers advanced infrastructure and clear regulatory frameworks. Its smart systems are also ready to support such innovations.

Currently, users can book Apollo Go and WeRide vehicles through the Uber and Apollo Go apps. The service operates in Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah. These areas are among Dubai’s busiest locations, especially near public beaches.

In the first phase, 100 autonomous taxis have been deployed. However, the fleet will expand gradually in the coming years. This expansion will align with rising demand for smart mobility solutions.

Before the launch, extensive trials were conducted across Dubai. These tests evaluated system performance and ensured readiness. They also met the highest safety and operational standards.

Autonomous vehicles rely on integrated systems powered by artificial intelligence. They also use advanced sensing technologies and real-time decision-making systems. As a result, they can operate safely alongside live traffic in urban environments.

Moreover, the taxis use high-definition maps and deep learning algorithms. These systems enable real-time data processing during operations. The vehicles can respond to traffic signals, intersections, pedestrians, and other vehicles. They also comply fully with traffic regulations.

The system is backed by strong global experience. The operator’s fleet has recorded over 150 million kilometres of safe driving. It has also completed more than 10 million autonomous trips worldwide. This experience supports scalable deployment models. Overall, the RTA continues to advance smart transport through its autonomous mobility initiatives.

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