CaoCao, ADIO unite to drive smart mobility in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is taking a major step towards a smarter, cleaner transport future. The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) has partnered with China’s CaoCao Inc. — a Geely-backed mobility technology company — to speed up the adoption of smart and autonomous mobility solutions in the emirate.

The collaboration, announced during DRIFTx 2025, Abu Dhabi’s global platform for smart and sustainable transport, marks a strategic move to establish CaoCao’s regional headquarters in the UAE capital. From here, the company plans to expand its footprint across the wider Middle East, bringing with it expertise in green and autonomous vehicle technologies.

CaoCao, known as Geely Holding Group’s main Robotaxi operator, has already built a strong presence in China. Its operations combine purpose-built electric vehicles, autonomous driving technology, and AI-based fleet management systems to create a connected, low-carbon transport ecosystem.

In line with Abu Dhabi’s vision for a smart mobility hub, the partnership will begin with pilot projects to test autonomous vehicles and battery-swap electric vehicles on Abu Dhabi roads. These trials will be conducted with government coordination to ensure safety and seamless integration with the emirate’s clean energy network.

The initiative also aims to boost local R&D, innovation, and talent development, opening opportunities for collaboration with UAE universities and research institutions. As part of the broader effort, both sides will focus on knowledge exchange, safety frameworks, and the promotion of smart mobility innovations at upcoming events in the capital.

This collaboration further strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a global testbed for next-generation transport technologies, reinforcing its appeal to innovation-driven Chinese enterprises seeking regional expansion and sustainable growth.