Chinese autonomous driving technology company WeRide (NASDAQ: WRD) has reached a significant milestone by launching fully unmanned robotaxi pilot operations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This marks the first purely unmanned robotaxi fleet in the Middle East. The company initially began operations with safety officers in Abu Dhabi in December 2024, paving the way for this latest development.
WeRide’s expansion into fully unmanned robotaxi operations in Abu Dhabi showcases the company’s technological advancement and readiness for large-scale commercial deployment. Xuan Li, WeRide’s CFO and head of international business, expressed confidence in the company’s progress and highlighted the inclusion of high-demand areas like Al Maryah Island and Al Reem Island in the service expansion.
Founded in 2017, WeRide has been at the forefront of developing advanced smart driving solutions in China. The company went public on Nasdaq on October 25, 2024, solidifying its position in the autonomous driving industry. In a strategic move to enhance its services, WeRide partnered with Uber in September 2024 to integrate its robotaxis onto Uber’s platform.
The collaboration between WeRide and Uber commenced robotaxi services in Abu Dhabi in December 2024, with each autonomous vehicle accompanied by a safety officer. The partnership has since expanded to Dubai, underscoring the success and potential of the joint initiative. Recently, WeRide and Uber announced plans to further expand their strategic partnership to include 15 new cities globally over the next five years, encompassing regions in Europe and the Middle East.
WeRide is actively engaged in developing and testing autonomous driving technology in 30 cities across 10 countries worldwide, highlighting its commitment to innovation and global expansion. The company’s foray into fully unmanned robotaxi operations in Abu Dhabi signifies a significant step forward in the autonomous driving landscape, setting the stage for continued advancements and widespread adoption of autonomous vehicles.
The partnership between WeRide and Uber has garnered substantial interest, with Uber reportedly set to invest an additional $100 million in WeRide. This investment, expected to be finalized in the coming months, represents Uber’s largest investment in the autonomous driving sector to date, underscoring the strategic importance of the collaboration between the two companies.
In conclusion, WeRide’s successful launch of fully unmanned robotaxi operations in Abu Dhabi heralds a new era of autonomous driving technology in the Middle East, showcasing the company’s innovation and leadership in the industry. As WeRide continues to expand its global presence and enhance its technological capabilities, the future of autonomous transportation looks promising and poised for significant growth and development.
