Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has taken a major leap toward the future of mobility by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Baidu’s Apollo Go, one of the world’s leading autonomous ride-hailing platforms. The agreement outlines plans to begin trials of 50 autonomous taxis across the city starting in 2025. This initiative marks a significant milestone in Dubai’s mission to become a global leader in smart mobility and sustainable transportation.
Baidu’s Apollo Go has already demonstrated its success in several major Chinese cities, and its partnership with Dubai represents its first venture into the Middle East. These autonomous vehicles, often referred to as “robotaxis,” are fully driverless and use advanced AI technologies, sensors, and navigation systems to operate safely and efficiently without human intervention.
For Dubai, the move aligns with its broader vision to transform 25% of all transportation trips into autonomous journeys by 2030. The introduction of self-driving taxis is expected to improve road safety, reduce traffic congestion, lower emissions, and enhance convenience for commuters. The trials will also allow the RTA to assess public acceptance, technical readiness, and the overall performance of autonomous vehicles in the local environment.
This collaboration is not only a step toward smarter cities but also sets the stage for the UAE to become a regional hub for innovation in transport technology. As Dubai continues to embrace futuristic solutions, the arrival of driverless taxis could redefine how residents and tourists move around the city in the years to come.
