Dubai launches free autonomous taxi service for public in Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah

Dubai: Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has begun public operations of its autonomous taxi service in Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah, allowing residents to book free driverless rides as part of the emirate’s push towards smart mobility.The service is being operated in partnership with Apollo Go and autonomous driving technology company WeRide. Passengers can book the vehicles through the Uber and Apollo Go mobile applications.Get updated faster and for FREE: Download the Gulf News app now - simply click here.In a social media announcement, the RTA said: "Your next ride could be autonomous, and it’s currently free," inviting residents to experience the technology firsthand.قد تكون رحلتك القادمة ذاتية القيادة، وهي مجانية في الوقت الراهن.أعلنت #هيئة_الطرق_و_المواصلات عن إطلاق خدمة التاكسي ذاتي القيادة للاستخدام العام في أم سقيم وجميرا، بالشراكة مع شركتي أبولو جو و وي رايد.يمكنك الآن حجز رحلتك بكل سهولة عبر أوبر أو أبولو جو، واكتشاف كيفية رسم حلول… pic.twitter.com/OukzbXjXSe— RTA (@rta_dubai) July 15, 2026 The public launch follows the announcement earlier this year of the commercial rollout of autonomous taxis, with the first phase introducing 100 driverless vehicles into Dubai’s transport network.The fleet is expected to expand gradually over the coming years in line with demand for smart mobility services and Dubai’s broader ambitions to increase the use of autonomous transport.The initiative supports the Dubai Self-Driving Transport Strategy, which aims to accelerate the adoption of autonomous mobility solutions across the emirate.The RTA said the deployment further strengthens Dubai’s position as a global destination for autonomous driving technologies, supported by advanced infrastructure, a clear regulatory framework and smart transport systems designed to enable future mobility.Dubai rolls out driverless taxis in key residential areas in major mobility shiftDubai Taxi Company adds 600 vehicles to fleetDubai launches autonomous taxi service in Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah Dubai Taxi launches driverless rides after RTA rollout