Abu Dhabi expands driverless taxi service to Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands

Authorities in Abu Dhabi have announced the expansion of autonomous taxi services to "high-density areas" like Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands.

Making the announcement on Tuesday, Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) said the service will be carried out in collaboration with WeRide, with Uber and Tawasul Transport as the local operator of the project.

The complex traffic patterns in the islands, which are key centres for financial, residential and commercial sectors, offer an ideal setting to demonstrate the advanced capabilities of WeRide’s technology, the authorities added. 

It builds on the services already available on Al Saadiyat and Yas Islands, as well as routes to Zayed International Airport and supports Abu Dhabi’s strategic vision to make 25 per cent of trips in the emirate rely on smart transport by 2040.

The ITC is also working to roll out the service to more areas on Abu Dhabi Island in the future.

"This expansion gives us the opportunity to reach more passengers, showcase our advanced technology in complex urban settings, and further accelerate the deployment of autonomous vehicles across the city," said Jennifer Li, Chief Financial Officer and Head of International at WeRide.

The emirate currently operates the largest active fleet, with 44 autonomous vehicles serving key locations across the city.