Driverless Taxis Abu Dhabi Grow Across Al Reem, Maryah Islands
Abu Dhabi has taken another bold step into the future of mobility with the expansion of its autonomous taxi service. The Emirate’s latest update confirms that residents and visitors can now access driverless taxis across Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands.
These new areas follow the earlier successful rollout of self-driving taxis on Saadiyat Island and Yas Island, as well as the route connecting to Zayed International Airport. With the inclusion of these two new high-traffic zones, about half of Abu Dhabi’s core districts are now supported by smart, autonomous transportation. This progress marks a major leap in the city’s ambition to have at least 25 percent of all its travel relying on intelligent mobility by the year 2040.
Partners Behind the Smart Taxi Innovation
The service is managed by Abu Dhabi Mobility, which has partnered with international autonomous tech firm WeRide, ride-hailing giant Uber, and the local operator Tawasul Transport. This collaboration highlights how public and private sector efforts are working in harmony to elevate transportation in the UAE capital.
The smart taxi service aims not only to enhance convenience but also to offer safer, cleaner, and more efficient urban travel experiences. Since the service began in December 2024, the fleet of autonomous taxis has tripled in number, reflecting strong public interest and growing confidence in the technology. Passengers have been quick to embrace this new mode of travel, with high levels of satisfaction reported across early rides.
Why These Island Locations Were Chosen
Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands were natural choices for expansion due to their modern infrastructure, high population density, and frequent commuter movement. These locations are filled with residential complexes, shopping malls, office towers, and entertainment venues, which means a high demand for everyday transportation. By integrating autonomous taxis into such vibrant hubs, Abu Dhabi is directly addressing the practical mobility needs of the community, making it easier for people to get around without relying on personal vehicles or traditional taxis.
How the Service Works for Riders
The autonomous taxi rides are available through the Uber app and also via TXAI, the UAE’s first ride-hailing app dedicated exclusively to self-driving vehicles. Booking a ride is as simple as selecting your pickup and drop-off location, after which an autonomous car arrives at your location.
Despite being driverless, each vehicle is equipped with an array of safety sensors, cameras, and smart software to navigate roads, switch lanes, brake at traffic lights, and ensure smooth rides without human input. Riders have reported that the cars are quiet, clean, and move steadily. Feedback has suggested that the trips feel surprisingly natural, with many noting that they quickly forgot no human was driving.
Supporting Abu Dhabi’s Smart and Sustainable Vision
What’s particularly exciting about this development is how it’s connected to the larger vision of transforming Abu Dhabi into a world leader in smart cities. The expansion of autonomous taxis fits into a broader plan to reduce traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and improve the overall transportation system. With every trip taken in a driverless vehicle, Abu Dhabi moves closer to reducing its environmental impact while offering a practical service that meets the needs of residents and tourists alike.
Public Response and Real Benefits for Commuters
Since the first launch in 2024, the public reception has been overwhelmingly positive. Riders have enjoyed the novelty of experiencing cutting-edge technology while also appreciating the time and convenience these vehicles offer.
Some residents, especially tech-savvy youth and working professionals, say they prefer the autonomous option because it’s consistent and eliminates the unpredictability often experienced with traditional taxi services. Tourists have expressed delight at the ease of exploring the city in such futuristic fashion, especially when arriving from Zayed International Airport directly into the heart of Yas or Saadiyat Island in a driverless car.
Eco-Friendly, Stress-Free, and Smart Travel
From a practical perspective, these vehicles help avoid the stress of city traffic and allow passengers to relax or check emails during the ride. This hands-free and stress-free experience is one of the key appeals of driverless transport. Additionally, the service operates with sustainability in mind, contributing to cleaner air and better urban planning. The vehicles are designed to be energy-efficient, and fewer cars on the road mean less congestion and noise pollution.
Future Expansion Plans Already Underway
Officials from Abu Dhabi Mobility have confirmed that more districts across the city are scheduled to receive the driverless service soon. The roadmap includes expansions into mainland Abu Dhabi and other areas such as Masdar City and Khalifa City.
As the fleet grows, the government expects that autonomous taxis will become a mainstream method of urban transport, providing consistent, safe, and high-tech alternatives to personal car use. Each new area added to the network helps ensure that residents in all parts of the city can benefit from these modern services, no matter where they live or work.
Leading the Region in Autonomous Technology
The UAE is not just adapting to change; it is actively shaping it. By introducing such large-scale, government-supported, and commercially viable autonomous taxi systems, Abu Dhabi is setting the benchmark for smart mobility in the region. No other city in the Middle East currently offers such a wide-reaching driverless taxi experience, putting the UAE ahead of the curve. This technological progress complements the country’s other smart initiatives, including AI-driven infrastructure, green energy developments, and future-focused economic reforms.
A Glimpse of the Future, Now a Daily Reality
In a short time, autonomous vehicles have gone from futuristic concepts to a visible, usable reality on the streets of Abu Dhabi. The feedback from early adopters has mostly emphasized smooth navigation, clean interiors, professional design, and ease of booking. Passengers are not just impressed they are beginning to depend on the service as part of their daily routine. This organic adoption is proof that autonomous transport can be accepted quickly, provided the system is reliable, affordable, and beneficial to the user.
Mobility That Works for Everyone
For anyone visiting or living in Abu Dhabi today, driverless taxis are no longer a tech showcase they are a functioning, reliable, and futuristic part of the city’s everyday life. This expansion is not just about improving roads or transportation options; it’s about changing how people experience their city and making the idea of smart living accessible to everyone.
As we look ahead, it’s clear that Abu Dhabi’s commitment to becoming a leader in autonomous transport will continue. More zones, more vehicles, and more connected services are on the way. The UAE capital is showing the world how technology, vision, and practical planning can come together to build a better urban future one where cars drive themselves, cities breathe easier, and residents move freely and safely.
