Dubai to begin trial runs for self-driving vehicles later this year
Pilot operations of autonomous vehicles are set to begin in Dubai later this year, according to a new agreement. Field preparations for the pilot phase are already underway, led by Uber and WeRide, with strategic support and supervision from Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
In the initial phase, the vehicles will operate with a safety driver on board, paving the way for the full-scale commercial rollout of driverless services in 2026.
RTA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Uber Technologies and WeRide, as part of which the pilot operations will commence via the Uber app in Dubai.
'It also supports the objectives of Dubai Smart Self-Driving Transport Strategy, which seeks to convert 25 per cent of all mobility journeys in the emirate into autonomous trips across various transport modes by 2030.'
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Dubai Airports said: 'Some flights at DXB and DWC are cancelled or delayed due to airspace closures over parts of the region', and airlines across the UAE gave details of major disruption to scheduled flights'. Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport said: 'Due to ongoing airspace closures, flight disruptions at Zayed International Airport – including delays and cancellations – are expected to continue on Sunday, June 15 and Monday, June 16. 'Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest travel information before heading to the airport. We appreciate your patience and understanding'.
