WeRide and Uber expand robotaxi service to Abu Dhabi islands

WeRide Inc. (NASDAQ: WRD) and Uber Technologies Inc. (NYSE: UBER) expanded their robotaxi service to Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands in Abu Dhabi in partnership with the Integrated Transport Centre, according to a press release statement.

The expansion covers approximately half of Abu Dhabi's core areas, including Al Reem, Al Maryah, Yas, and Saadiyat islands, as well as highway routes to Zayed International Airport. The companies expect the expanded service to double ride volumes.

Since launching in Abu Dhabi in December 2024, the robotaxi fleet has tripled in size. WeRide and Uber plan to grow their fleet to hundreds of robotaxis in Abu Dhabi and extend services to Khalifa City, Masdar City, and additional downtown areas later this year.

The service uses WeRide's GXR model, a purpose-built autonomous vehicle that accommodates up to five passengers. Each vehicle averages dozens of trips per day during 12-hour shifts, with rides typically exceeding six kilometers.

"Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands are high-demand areas and serve as key gateways to Abu Dhabi," said Jennifer Li, CFO and Head of International at WeRide. "This expansion gives us the opportunity to reach more passengers, showcase our advanced technology in complex urban settings."

Passengers can access WeRide robotaxis in the new zones through the Uber and TXAI mobile applications. The companies operate what they describe as the largest robotaxi network in the Middle East.

WeRide is conducting fully driverless testing of its robotaxis in Abu Dhabi, with public access expected in the coming months. The company has received autonomous driving permits in six markets: China, France, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, the UAE, and the US.

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