Dubai to launch autonomous vehicle trials; full self-driving car rollout scheduled for 2026
autonomous driving technology
, to kick off a pilot project later in 2025. This initiative will lay the groundwork for a fully driverless commercial service planned for 2026.
The collaboration is a major part of Dubai's
Smart Self-Driving Transport Strategy
, which seeks to convert 25% of all trips in the city to autonomous journeys by 2030.
Pony.ai recently came out with its seventh-generation autonomous vehicle. It is co-developed with major automakers, including Toyota, GAC, and BAIC. According to the news portal Gulf News, these vehicles will carry state-of-the-art AI systems. Besides this, there will be an integrated suite of sensors, lidars, radars, and high-resolution cameras to navigate complex road conditions safely and accurately.
Moreover, the company has also joined hands with leading technology platforms, including Tencent and Alibaba, to embed its robotaxi services into apps like WeChat and Alipay. This move will further streamline mobility experiences for users. The MoU was signed in the presence of Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA Mattar Al Tayer and Chief Financial Officer of Pony.ai Leo Wang.
Public Transport Agency CEO Ahmed Hashim Bahrozyan was present to sign on behalf of RTA, while Vice President of Strategy and Business Development Ann Shi represented Pony.ai. Senior officials from both sides also took part in the ceremony.
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Hailing the fresh partnership, Al Tayer called it a strategic move that reinforces Dubai's position as a global leader in futuristic transport. 'Our collaboration with Pony.ai reflects RTA's continued commitment to integrating cutting-edge autonomous mobility solutions,' he said, as quoted by Gulf News. 'This aligns with Dubai's vision to enhance sustainability, safety, and user convenience through innovation in transportation.'
Autonomous taxis
Al Tayer further stated that autonomous taxis are set to be instrumental in first- and last-mile connectivity, improving mobility for residents and visitors, enhancing road safety, and offering seamless public transport integration.
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