Dubai to launch self-driving taxis in 2026

DUBAI: The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced the official launch of autonomous taxis in the Emirate by 2026, with commercial pilot operations beginning this year, according to a press statement issued on Wednesday.

As part of the bold initiative, the RTA is expanding strategic partnerships with global leaders in autonomous driving, including Uber Technologies Inc., WeRide, and Baidu’s autonomous mobility arm Apollo Go—one of the world’s top autonomous transport providers.
According to His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the RTA, Uber will introduce autonomous vehicles in Dubai through its platform, starting with safety drivers behind the wheel during trial runs in 2024. Full commercial operations are expected by 2026.
The initiative supports RTA’s first and last-mile strategy, aimed at connecting commuters efficiently to main public transport hubs. Autonomous taxis are also expected to boost road safety, as human error accounts for over 90% of traffic accidents, the RTA noted.

Beyond convenience, the move is designed to serve a wider range of residents, including senior citizens, people of determination, and daily commuters, by offering accessible and intelligent mobility solutions.