WeRide

Uber launched fully driverless robotaxi services in Abu Dhabi in partnership with WeRide, marking its fourth market and the first in the Middle East. Riders can request WeRide robotaxis via the Uber app. This follows previous autonomous ride initiatives with safety operators in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh. Uber plans to expand WeRide’s service to 15 more cities. This initiative reflects Uber’s broader strategy of collaborating with specialized companies to advance autonomous mobility solutions.

WeRide and Uber have launched fully driverless Robotaxi commercial operations in Abu Dhabi, the first city outside the U.S. to host such operations on the Uber platform. Supported by a city-level permit and endorsed by the Integrated Transport Centre, the service is initially available on Yas Island via the Uber app. This initiative aligns with the UAE’s smart mobility vision and aims for sustainable unit economics. The companies plan to expand Robotaxi deployment in the Middle East, marking a significant advancement in autonomous vehicle technology.

Pony.ai and WeRide, autonomous driving tech firms already listed in the US, have received approval from China’s regulator for secondary listings on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX). Each plans to issue approximately 102 million new shares. This move aims to secure capital for global expansion into regions like the Middle East and Europe. Pony.ai CEO cites Hong Kong’s proximity to China as a key factor. Both companies are also expanding robotaxi operations, partnering with Uber in the US and operating in Chinese cities.

Singapore is integrating self-driving vehicles into its public transport by late 2025, starting with residential areas. This move follows a visit by Singapore’s transport minister to WeRide, an autonomous driving leader. The partnership aims to accelerate AV deployment and improve connectivity, addressing demographic shifts and labor shortages. Singapore plans to expedite AV adoption over the next five years with WeRide’s support.

WeRide is expanding into Saudi Arabia, launching Robotaxis and other autonomous vehicle products in Riyadh and AlUla, with trial runs on Uber soon and full commercial services expected by late 2025. The move includes Robobuses and Robosweepers, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030. This strategic expansion builds upon WeRide’s existing Middle East presence and complements Uber’s global expansion. Key advantages are a multi-product strategy catering diverse needs and aligning with ambitious regional goals.

In Q1 2025, WeRide reported RMB72.44 million ($10.1M) revenue and a 35% gross margin, with Robotaxi revenue surging 22.3% to RMB16.1M. The company expanded its Uber partnership, securing a $100M strategic investment and launching a $100M share buyback. Milestones included France’s first fully driverless permit, licenses across five countries, and an autonomous minibus pilot in Spain with Renault. Domestically, it tested Robovan W5 in Guangzhou’s smart city hub and launched a 24/7 autonomous ride-hailing network. The CFO emphasized scalable tech and global growth, as analysts highlighted WeRide’s dual regulatory-commercial strategy targeting a projected $2 trillion autonomous mobility market by 2040.