Dubai to launch driverless taxi trials this year ahead of 2026 rollout
The RTA has signed a memorandum of understanding with American firm Pony.ai to introduce driverless taxi trials this year, ahead of a wider rollout in 2026.
Dubai residents can expect an advanced fleet of Pony.ai vehicles to hit the roads next year.
The company's vehicles are equipped with advanced artificial intelligence algorithms, supported by a sophisticated suite of sensors, including lidars, radars, and cameras, to ensure precise navigation and safety across varying road and weather conditions.
This latest agreement follows previous deals with popular ride-hailing app Uber and Chinese firm Baidu to also start trials of autonomous taxis in Dubai.
Driverless taxis will be introduced to Dubai roads in 2025 (Credit: RTA)
Pony.ai collaborates with industry leaders, including Toyota, GAC Motor, and BAIC Motor, to develop its seventh-generation robotaxis. Mass deployment is slated for later this year following the vehicles' successful debut in Shanghai in April.
Its advanced sensor array handles complex scenarios ranging from high-speed highways to crowded urban centres like Dubai's business and financial districts.
Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the board of executive directors at the RTA, said the partnership will help the authority in its goal to bring more autonomous options to Dubai.
He said: 'RTA's continued expansion of partnerships with leading global companies in the field of autonomous mobility marks a key step towards achieving the Dubai Smart Self-Driving Transport Strategy, which aims to convert 25 percent of all trips in Dubai into autonomous journeys across various modes of transport by 2030.
'It underscores RTA's commitment to working closely with global technology leaders to advance the future of smart, efficient, and sustainable mobility.
'The operation of autonomous taxis contributes to the integration of transport systems by facilitating the movement of public transport users and improving access to their final destinations in line with the first and last-mile strategy.
'Operating autonomous taxis will enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors in Dubai, improve road safety, and offer greater convenience in daily mobility across the emirate.'
Driverless taxis will be introduced in Dubai (Credit: Baidu)
Long-term plans for Pony.ai in Dubai include integrating robotaxi services with Dubai's multimodal transport network – encompassing metro, tram, and maritime routes – to create a future where autonomous vehicles complement existing infrastructure, enabling smoother journeys and reducing the city's carbon footprint.
Dr. Leo Wang, CFO of Pony.ai, said that they are committed to helping Dubai move to self-driving transport.
He said: 'The collaboration with Dubai RTA exemplifies our commitment to deploying Level 4 autonomous technology in strategic global markets.
'By aligning our technological capabilities with RTA's visionary leadership, we're establishing foundational standards for intelligent transportation ecosystems across the MENA region.'
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