Chinese autonomous driving firms are accelerating commercial operations in the United Arab Emirates to support Dubai's target of making 25 percent of transport trips driverless by 2030. Baidu's Apollo Go launched commercial services in Dubai in March, while WeRide has deployed over 200 vehicles regionally and Pony.ai prepares a local rollout.
Chinese autonomous vehicle developers are expanding commercial operations in Dubai to align with the emirate's goal of making 25 percent of transport trips driverless by 2030. Baidu's Apollo Go launched commercial services in March, WeRide has deployed over 200 vehicles in the region, and Pony.ai plans to begin commercial robotaxi services later this year.
Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority and Dubai Police will introduce new truck movement regulations from October 1, 2026, to reduce road congestion and enhance safety. The measures include 24-hour bans on specific corridors, a 16-hour restriction on Sheikh Zayed Road, and peak-hour curbs across urban routes, while Emirates Road remains exempt. Transport operators requiring movement during restricted hours for essential tasks must secure a mobility permit.
Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority and Dubai Police announced updated restrictions on heavy commercial vehicles starting October 1, 2026. Sheikh Zayed Road will introduce a daily 16-hour ban on heavy lorries from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Emirates Road remains exempted to support inter-emirate industrial transport.
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