Dubai’s self-driving taxis represent yet another milestone for the emirate. The Roads and Transport Authority plans to roll out autonomous taxis, or self-driving cars, in Dubai by 2026. This innovation, alongside Dubai’s self-driving bus, is part of Dubai’s Vision 2030 to foster economic diversification and position the city as a global technology hub.
Self-Driving Uber Taxis: The Next Milestone in Autonomous Mobility
The upcoming fleet of self-driving taxis will be available on the Uber app, making it easier than ever for residents and tourists to hail a ride at the touch of a button. By integrating the Uber services, Dubai will become one of the first cities to offer self-driving cars on leading rideshare platforms.
Vision of 2030: 25% of All Travel With Autonomous Vehicles
The launching of these taxis is part of a larger vision detailed in Dubai’s Self-Driving Transport Strategy which targets 25% of all journeys in the city to be autonomous by the year 2030. This is a bold plan that shows Dubai’s determination to lead in the innovation of intelligent technology and sustainable city transportation.
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, did not hide his enthusiasm for this achievement: “These partnerships mark an important step forward in Dubai’s Self-Driving Transport Strategy which intends for 25% of all journeys in the city to be autonomous by 2030 using various types of transport.”
Revolutionizing Public Transport: First and Last Mile Integration
The autonomous taxis will improve the city’s public transport system, and this will be one of the most notable advantages of the self-driving taxis. The driverless cars will be essential to the first and last mile integration which includes the distance from public transport terminals to the passengers final destination.
Tayer has taken this opportunity to remark: “The deployment of autonomous taxis will enhance the first and last mile connectivity for public transport users. This goes hand in had with the First and Last Mile Strategy that RTA has put into place last year, which facilitates the movement of passengers from the point of origin or destination to the nearest public transport station.”
This allows commuters a convenient public transport experience, where now self driving taxis can be accessed from the bus or metro station and even provide access to other bus stops.
Dubai’s Smart City Dream Is Taking Shape
The overall vision positioned to set Dubai as the smartest city in the world includes this self driving taxi initiative. Integrating autonomous vehicles into Dubai’s transportation network will enhance travel efficiency while taking an important step towards a cleaner, less congested sustainable future.
This city never stops innovating and has plans to introduce even more advanced transport systems in the coming decade which will position Dubai as one of the most futuristic and interconnected cities on the globe.
Self-driving taxis have rolled out in 2026.
The vision of autonomous taxis in Dubai is becoming a reality, now that 2026 is just around the corner. The arrival of these taxis, whether for convenience, sustainability, or effectiveness, will certainly revolutionize transport in the city.
Want a lift? Because Dubai seems to be fully autonomous, it may drive you anywhere you want.