Uber Technologies (NYSE: UBER) and WeRide (NASDAQ: WRD) have launched a ride-hailing partnership in Abu Dhabi, marking the first availability of autonomous vehicles (AVs) on Uber’s platform outside the U.S. and the largest Robotaxi service outside the U.S. and China.

Riders using UberX or Uber Comfort may now be matched with WeRide autonomous vehicles for trips coming to or going from the Zayed International Airport, with plans to expand coverage.

Initially, safety operators will accompany each AV to ensure a secure experience, with fully driverless operations targeted for 2025. Riders can opt-in via the Uber app's Ride Preferences to boost their chances of an AV match.

Noah Zych, Uber’s Global Head of Autonomous Mobility stated: “As we take this next step in Abu Dhabi, we are excited to build on the strength of the Uber platform, helping our partners make autonomous vehicles a part of everyday life.”

With over 49 billion trips, Uber is a platform that opens up the world to new possibilities by changing how people move through cities. 

WeRide is the world’s first publicly traded Robotaxi company and a global leader in autonomous driving.

Uber trades on the NYSE under the ticker symbol UBER, while WeRide trades on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol WRD.