Abu Dhabi Expands Autonomous Taxi Services to Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands, Accelerating Smart Mobility Vision
Abu Dhabi, through its Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) under the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), has expanded its autonomous taxi services to cover two key urban areas — Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands — as part of the emirate’s broader smart mobility strategy.
In partnership with WeRide, a global autonomous driving leader, and Uber, the service expansion is operated locally by Tawasul Transport. This milestone reinforces Abu Dhabi’s vision to make 25% of trips powered by smart transport by 2040.
Regional Hub for Smart Transport
The move solidifies Abu Dhabi’s position as the first MENA city to commercially operate autonomous vehicles, with 44 self-driving taxis currently active across core districts. The launch on Al Reem and Al Maryah — two high-density commercial and residential islands — follows successful deployments on Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and routes to Zayed International Airport.
The expansion addresses increasing demand for accessible, reliable transport while demonstrating how AI-powered vehicles can operate in complex traffic environments.
Smart City Strategy and Tech Leadership
The initiative aligns with the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC) strategy and Abu Dhabi’s transport transformation roadmap, which prioritises:
- Integrated mobility networks
- Sustainable and efficient transportation
- AI and autonomous system deployment
- Innovation-led public-private partnerships
By 2040, the emirate aims for 1 in 4 trips to rely on autonomous or smart mobility options, paving the way for greener, safer urban travel.
Strategic Partnerships Fueling Growth
This project exemplifies the power of global-local collaboration in smart transport:
- WeRide, with a major presence in the US, China, and now the UAE, brings cutting-edge autonomous vehicle (AV) technology.
- Uber, through its platform, enables seamless user access to autonomous rides, merging global logistics with local infrastructure.
- Tawasul Transport, as local operator, ensures operational alignment with community needs and safety standards.
Since launching on the Uber app in December 2024, the AV fleet in Abu Dhabi has tripled, and the partnership aims to cover more areas across Abu Dhabi Island in upcoming phases.
Leaders Speak on Smart Mobility Impact
Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, noted:
“This expansion is a vital step in our journey toward a smarter and safer transport future. By integrating innovative technology in key urban hubs, we’re delivering efficient, eco-friendly transport solutions that enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.”
Jennifer Li, CFO and Head of International at WeRide, said:
“Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands are ideal environments to showcase our advanced autonomous tech. We’re proud to deepen our footprint in the Middle East with the support of the ITC and Uber.”
Mohamad Jardaneh, Head of Autonomous Mobility, Middle East at Uber, added:
“This is the year we bring AVs into the mainstream. Rider feedback has been strong since launch, and we’re excited to make autonomous rides a daily reality for more people.”
Where You Can Ride Today
Autonomous taxi services are now available in:
- Al Reem Island
- Al Maryah Island
- Saadiyat Island
- Yas Island
- Routes to Zayed International Airport
Upcoming expansions will target Abu Dhabi Island, with a roadmap toward full commercial deployment and integration across public transport systems.
Why It Matters
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Active AVs in Abu Dhabi | 44 vehicles |
| % of trips targeted as smart by 2040 | 25% |
| Uber AV fleet growth (Dec 2024–2025) | 3x |
| Service coverage area | 50% of core Abu Dhabi areas |
| Regions served | Saadiyat, Yas, Al Reem, Al Maryah, Airport |
Abu Dhabi as a Global Mobility Hub
Abu Dhabi’s success in smart transport reflects:
- Government-led innovation
- Sustainable development goals
- Private-sector collaboration
- Smart infrastructure investment
The emirate’s vision is clear: create a sustainable, AI-powered transport system that connects people, reduces emissions, enhances safety, and supports economic development.
By hosting WeRide’s largest AV fleet outside the US and China, Abu Dhabi is setting a benchmark for smart city innovation in the Middle East.
What’s Next?
The ITC aims to:
- Expand AV coverage across Abu Dhabi Island
- Launch commercial operations city-wide
- Increase fleet size and vehicle diversity
- Integrate AV services into the broader public transport network
- Enable seamless intermodal travel via a unified digital platform
As 2025 progresses, Abu Dhabi continues to accelerate its transformation into a global model for smart, connected, and sustainable mobility.
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