WeRide and Uber have introduced autonomous rides in Abu Dhabi, marking a step toward global, sustainable and accessible autonomous mobility solutions.
In a strategic partnership to advance autonomous driving globally, WeRide, a leading autonomous driving technology company, has joined forces with Uber Technologies, the world’s largest mobility platform.
The collaboration aims to bring WeRide’s autonomous vehicles to the Uber platform, beginning in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with an initial launch planned for Abu Dhabi by the end of the year.
Autonomous rides to Abu Dhabi
The collaboration will introduce a dedicated number of WeRide autonomous vehicles to Uber’s platform, offering riders in Abu Dhabi the option to book self-driving rides via the Uber app.
Riders requesting a qualifying trip in Abu Dhabi may have the opportunity to experience a ride fulfilled by one of WeRide’s autonomous vehicles.
The expansion into Abu Dhabi aligns with WeRide’s focus on offering reliable, safe and accessible autonomous transport options to the public.
WeRide has already established a strong presence in the UAE, operating the largest autonomous vehicle fleet in the country through its TXAI app. In 2023, WeRide achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first company to obtain a national licence to test and operate autonomous vehicles across public roads in the UAE.
This foundational approval set the stage for the partnership with Uber, enabling both companies to build on existing regulatory groundwork to launch in Abu Dhabi’s unique market.
Expanding global access to autonomous mobility
The partnership represents a shared vision between WeRide and Uber to expand access to autonomous transportation globally, while making strides towards an electric and shared mobility future.
Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO at Uber, highlights the alignment between Uber’s strategic goals and the partnership with WeRide: “Uber is very excited to partner with WeRide. The future of mobility will be increasingly shared, electric and autonomous, and we look forward to working with leading AV companies like WeRide to help bring the benefits of autonomous technology to cities worldwide.”
The partnership with WeRide adds an innovative layer to Uber’s portfolio, potentially increasing operational efficiencies and contributing to environmental sustainability by reducing the number of human-driven vehicles on the road.
Local and sustainable solutions for urban transport
By focusing on an international market outside the US and China, Uber and WeRide are strategically targeting the UAE, which has shown an interest in integrating autonomous technologies into its infrastructure.
“We are honoured to partner with Uber to continue to bring our technology to global markets. Together, we aim to combine our collective experience and expertise to deliver much-needed, affordable, sustainable, and safe mobility solutions to a global audience.” – Tony Han, founder and CEO of WeRide
“Together, we aim to combine our collective experience and expertise to deliver much-needed, affordable, sustainable and safe mobility solutions to a global audience.”
The partnership’s emphasis on sustainability is especially relevant in Abu Dhabi, a city that has made significant investments in becoming a technology and innovation hub within the Middle East.
Pioneering the future of autonomous mobility
The WeRide-Uber partnership highlights a trend toward increased collaboration between technology and mobility giants to deliver next-generation transport solutions.
By leveraging WeRide’s advanced autonomous vehicle technology within Uber’s global mobility platform, both companies are positioned to redefine urban transport to minimise emissions, enhance safety and potentially reduce congestion.
While this partnership’s initial phase is limited to Abu Dhabi, the potential exists for expansion based on the project’s success. As the companies explore new opportunities, their combined efforts are likely to set new standards in integrating autonomous vehicles within shared mobility services, laying the groundwork that could inspire similar collaborations across other global markets.
The partnership reflects a larger industry trend towards an autonomous, electric and connected future. Uber and WeRide’s collaboration signals a commitment to expanding the role of autonomous technology within everyday transport options.
