Chinese autonomous driving companies including WeRide and Baidu Apollo Go are expanding commercial robotaxi deployments across the UAE, specifically in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. WeRide has partnered with Uber and Grab, while Apollo Go has deployed autonomous taxis on Dubai streets. Alongside international rollouts, firms face market challenges including financial losses and stock volatility.
Hong Kong authorities granted Baidu's Apollo Go a fully driverless vehicle trial permit on Airport Island following extensive road tests. The deployment aligns with broader international expansion by Chinese autonomous driving operators, including WeRide's robotaxi operations across Abu Dhabi and Dubai in partnership with Uber and Grab. Financial and industry data show rapid trip volume growth alongside ongoing profitability and technical reliability challenges.
Policy updates, China–UAE business news and industry insights, delivered to your inbox.
Membership
Tell us about your experience and connection to UAE–China business. UECN assesses your application and offers the right membership category — fees are shared privately with your offer.
We send you a one-time sign-in link — your answers are saved as you go.
