Dubai Launches Driverless Taxis: Residents Can Now Book Autonomous Rides via Apollo Go App
Dubai has taken a major leap toward futuristic transportation by launching fully driverless taxi services, allowing residents and visitors to book rides without any human driver behind the wheel. The initiative marks a significant milestone in the emirate’s push to adopt cutting-edge mobility solutions and strengthen its position as a global leader in smart transport.
The new service has been introduced through a partnership between Dubai Taxi Company (DTC) and Baidu’s autonomous ride-hailing platform, Apollo Go. With this collaboration, Dubai becomes one of the first cities outside China to deploy Apollo Go’s technology on a commercial scale. The move puts Dubai at the forefront of autonomous mobility innovation.
Passengers can now book autonomous rides directly through the Apollo Go mobile application, available on both Android and iOS devices. The app enables users to request rides just like traditional e-hailing services, but the vehicles operate entirely without a driver. Authorities have also indicated that the service may eventually be integrated with other ride-hailing platforms, making it more accessible to a wider audience.
The rollout will begin with an initial fleet of around 50 driverless vehicles. However, officials have outlined ambitious expansion plans, aiming to increase the number of autonomous taxis to over 1,000 in the coming years. This gradual scaling approach will allow authorities to monitor performance, ensure safety, and refine operations as demand grows.
This initiative is part of Dubai’s broader Self-Driving Transport Strategy, which aims to make 25 per cent of all journeys in the city autonomous by the year 2030. By embracing advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and autonomous driving systems, the emirate hopes to improve efficiency, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance overall road safety. The strategy is a cornerstone of Dubai’s smart city vision.
Officials involved in the project highlighted that the partnership combines global expertise in autonomous driving with strong local operational capabilities. Dubai Taxi Company brings extensive experience in managing transport services across the city, while Apollo Go contributes its advanced self-driving technology, which has already been tested and deployed in multiple cities worldwide.
Before the commercial launch, the driverless vehicles underwent extensive testing in Dubai to ensure they meet safety and operational standards. Authorities confirmed that the trials demonstrated high levels of reliability and efficiency, paving the way for a full-scale rollout. Earlier in 2026, Apollo Go also secured a key permit allowing it to test fully autonomous vehicles in Dubai without a safety driver on board—an important step toward commercial deployment.
The project is further supported by infrastructure and operational developments, including the establishment of Apollo Go’s first international operations hub in Dubai. This facility is expected to play a crucial role in managing and expanding the autonomous taxi network across the city. It will also serve as a regional center for autonomous mobility research and development.
Globally, Apollo Go has already completed millions of rides and logged hundreds of millions of kilometres in autonomous driving, including a large portion of fully driverless operations. By bringing this technology to Dubai, authorities aim to replicate similar success while adapting it to local conditions and regulations. The platform’s safety record has been a key factor in its adoption.
The introduction of driverless taxis reflects Dubai’s long-term vision of becoming a smart city powered by innovation. The emirate has consistently invested in advanced transport systems, including driverless metro services and upcoming air taxi projects, as part of its efforts to redefine urban mobility. Autonomous taxis are the latest addition to this ecosystem.
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As the service expands, residents can expect greater convenience and accessibility, along with a glimpse into the future of transportation where human drivers may no longer be necessary. For now, the launch of these autonomous taxis signals a transformative step toward a more efficient, technology-driven travel experience in Dubai. The service is now available in select areas, with plans for citywide expansion in the coming months.
