Abu Dhabi Accelerates Smart Mobility with Expansion of Self-Driving Taxis to Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands

 

The future of urban transportation is unfolding in Abu Dhabi as the city expands its autonomous taxi service to two of its most vibrant districts — Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in the UAE capital’s smart mobility ambitions, bringing driverless technology to high-traffic commercial and residential hubs.

Since its initial launch in December 2024 in collaboration with Uber, WeRide, and local operator Tawasul Transport, the self-driving fleet has tripled in size, demonstrating rapid adoption and scalability. The service, which initially covered Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, and routes near Zayed International Airport, now extends to nearly half of Abu Dhabi’s key zones, reinforcing the emirate’s leadership in AI-powered transport.

A Vision for Smarter, Greener Cities

The expansion aligns with Abu Dhabi’s broader goal of ensuring that 25% of all trips within the city are conducted via smart and autonomous transport solutions by 2040. The Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC), alongside the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), is spearheading this transformation, positioning Abu Dhabi as a global benchmark for next-generation mobility.

Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of ITC, emphasized the significance of this phase, stating that the deployment in high-density areas like Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands reflects confidence in the technology’s ability to handle complex urban environments. Beyond convenience, the initiative contributes to reduced traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions — key pillars of the UAE’s sustainability agenda.

How It Works and What’s Next

Passengers can book these autonomous taxis through the Uber app, where the vehicles operate alongside traditional ride-hailing options. The partnership between WeRide’s cutting-edge autonomous driving technology and Uber’s vast user base has been instrumental in accelerating adoption. Meanwhile, Tawasul Transport ensures seamless integration with local infrastructure.

Looking ahead, Abu Dhabi’s roadmap includes further expansions into additional neighborhoods, enhanced AI capabilities for dynamic routing, and potential collaborations with other global tech leaders in autonomous mobility. As the city moves closer to its 2040 vision, each milestone reinforces its reputation as a living lab for smart city innovation.

Why This Matters for the Region and Beyond

Abu Dhabi’s progress in autonomous transport is not just a local achievement — it sets a precedent for smart urban mobility across the Middle East and beyond. By prioritizing safety, efficiency, and sustainability, the emirate offers a replicable model for cities grappling with congestion and pollution.

For residents and visitors, the rise of self-driving taxis means faster commutes, fewer vehicles on the road, and a glimpse into the future of transportation. For policymakers and tech innovators, it’s a case study in public-private collaboration and long-term urban planning.

As the wheels of innovation turn, Abu Dhabi’s streets are becoming a testament to what’s possible when ambition meets cutting-edge technology. The journey toward full smart mobility is well underway, and the world is watching.