Uber, WeRide launch ride-hailing partnership in Abu Dhabi

Uber (UBER) and WeRide (WRD) have announced the launch of their ride-hailing partnership in Abu Dhabi. The launch represents the first time autonomous vehicles, or AVs, are available on the Uber platform outside of the United States, as well as the largest commercial robotaxi service outside the U.S. and China. The service, supported by the Integrated Transport Centre, marks a step in making AVs part of everyday life in the region. Tawasul Transport, a UAE transport company, will act as the fleet operator. Starting immediately, Uber riders in Abu Dhabi requesting UberX or Uber Comfort may be matched with a WeRide AV for qualifying trips. The service will be available in areas, between Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and routes to and from Zayed International Airport, with plans to expand the operating territory in the future. At initial launch, each AV will have a safety operator present to ensure a secure and reliable experience for riders and pedestrians, laying the groundwork for a fully driverless commercial service planned for later in 2025.