Highlights

  • At least 1,200 Robotaxis planned across three Middle East cities
  • Deployment expected as early as 2027, subject to approvals
  • Robotaxis to be accessible through the Uber app

WeRide Inc. (NASDAQ:WRD; HKEX: 0800) and Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:UBER) announced a significant expansion of their strategic partnership to deploy a minimum of 1,200 Robotaxis across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Riyadh. The rollout is expected to be completed as early as 2027, contingent on regulatory clearances and operational performance benchmarks. All Robotaxis under the expanded program will be accessible through the Uber app in each of the three markets. The announcement builds on existing commercial Robotaxi operations in Abu Dhabi and passenger services in Dubai and Riyadh.

Operational Model and Regional Rollout

The companies stated that the fleet will be scaled progressively as regulatory approvals are secured and operational milestones are achieved, including the introduction of fully driverless commercial services in core urban areas. The rollout follows WeRide’s asset-light operating model, under which Uber and local third-party partners are responsible for day-to-day fleet operations. Under the companies’ prior agreement, Robotaxi deployments were planned across 15 cities by 2030. With the current announcement, operations are now active in three of those cities, with 12 additional locations expected to be added in the coming years. WeRide currently operates more than 200 Robotaxis across the Middle East region.

Performance Metrics and Market Context

In Abu Dhabi, the WeRide-Uber Robotaxi service is averaging multiple daily trips per vehicle and is approaching breakeven unit economics, according to the companies. The expanded fleet is expected to increase the scale of operations across the region. The deployment aligns with regulatory frameworks in the UAE and Saudi Arabia that permit commercial autonomous mobility services under defined operating conditions. The companies indicated that further expansion will depend on regulatory timelines and service performance metrics in each market.

Company Background and Strategic Context

WeRide operates autonomous driving services across mobility, logistics, and sanitation use cases, with testing or commercial operations in more than 40 cities globally. Uber operates a global mobility and delivery platform and has integrated autonomous mobility services into selected markets through partnerships. The expanded Middle East rollout forms part of a broader framework to introduce Robotaxi services in additional cities outlined under the companies’ earlier agreement extending through 2030.

Latest Closing Prices (as of February 06, 2026):

  • Uber Technologies Inc. (NYSE: UBER): USD75.21
  • WeRide Inc. ADR (NASDAQ: WRD): USD7.36