WeRide Inc. and Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:UBER) announced a major expansion of their strategic partnership to deploy at least 1,200 Robotaxis across the Middle East, marking one of the largest commercial autonomous mobility rollouts in the region. The deployment will span Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Riyadh, with completion targeted as soon as 2027.
Scaled Rollout Through the Uber App
All 1,200 Robotaxis will be available via the Uber app in the three markets, building on existing fully driverless commercial operations in Abu Dhabi and passenger services in Dubai and Riyadh. The fleet will be scaled progressively, with Uber committing to additional vehicles as regulatory approvals and performance milestones are achieved, including the expansion of fully driverless commercial coverage in core urban areas.
Executive Commentary
“Today’s announcement marks the largest Robotaxi commercial commitment in the MENA region. Supported by our existing fleet, bold regulators, and partners like Uber who share our ambition for safe and convenient mobility, this commitment accelerates our regional expansion and is a key part of our vision of tens of thousands of Robotaxis globally in the next five years,” said Dr. Tony Han, Founder and CEO of WeRide.
“This expansion with WeRide is an exciting moment for Uber and the Middle East. It is a testament to the strong performance of our existing deployments together, and we look forward to building on that momentum as we introduce more riders to autonomous mobility,” said Sarfraz Maredia, Global Head of Autonomous Mobility & Delivery at Uber.
Economics and Operating Model
The expanded deployment advances progress under the companies’ prior agreement, which outlined operations in 15 cities by 2030. The rollout follows WeRide’s asset-light model, with Uber or local partners handling fleet operations. WeRide currently operates more than 200 Robotaxis in the region. In Abu Dhabi, the service averages dozens of daily trips per Robotaxi and is on track to reach breakeven unit economics, reinforcing the commercial viability of autonomous mobility in the Middle East.
Price Action: WeRide shares were up 1.63% at $7.48 during premarket trading on Friday. The stock is near its 52-week low of $6.03, according to Benzinga Pro data. Uber Technologies shares were up 0.19% at $75.34.
Photo by Tada Images via Shutterstock
Recent Comments