Dubai Approves Autonomous Vehicle Trials by Global Firms

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has granted permits to Baidu’s Apollo Go, WeRide, and Pony.ai to conduct autonomous driving trials on the emirate’s roads. The approval allows the companies to begin on-road testing of self-driving vehicles across urban Dubai.

The move marks a significant step in expanding Dubai’s public transport ecosystem through the integration of autonomous mobility. The three companies will leverage their autonomous driving technologies and fleet operation expertise to ensure the vehicles can operate safely and efficiently in the city’s unique traffic environment.

This development builds on agreements signed earlier this year between RTA and the companies, aligning with Dubai’s roadmap to introduce autonomous taxi services. The initiative is part of the emirate’s broader Smart Self-Driving Transport Strategy, which aims to convert 25% of all mobility journeys into autonomous trips across different modes of transport by 2030.

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RTA emphasized that the collaborations aim to co-create a global benchmark for smart mobility while reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading city in autonomous transport solutions. The authority noted that all necessary tests and operations will be conducted to ensure the vehicles adapt seamlessly to local conditions.

Dubai has been actively fostering autonomous mobility solutions, positioning itself as a global hub for innovation in smart transport. The new permits are expected to accelerate testing and implementation, paving the way for wider adoption of autonomous vehicles in the coming years.

Testing by Baidu’s Apollo Go, WeRide, and Pony.ai is set to begin immediately, with RTA overseeing all operations to ensure safety and compliance.