Just Launched: Baidu Apollo Go Robotaxis Hit Dubai Streets Via Uber

Baidu, Uber, and Dubai RTA Launch Apollo Go Robotaxis

In a landmark move for autonomous mobility in the Middle East, Baidu, Uber, and Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) have officially partnered to launch Baidu's Apollo Go autonomous ride-hailing service via the Uber app in Dubai. The announcement, made on February 10, 2026, signals the start of the first fully driverless taxi service integrated into a major ride-hailing platform in the emirate, with operations expected to commence within weeks.

This strategic alliance marks the next phase of the global collaboration between the Chinese tech giant and the American mobility leader. The service will initially launch in select locations within the upscale Jumeirah area, with plans for a city-wide expansion contingent on operational success and regulatory approvals. Passengers will be able to book a ride in a fully autonomous vehicle exactly as they would a regular Uber—through the familiar app interface.

Why This Dubai Robotaxi Launch Is a Game-Changer

Dubai's selection as the launchpad for this service is no accident. It directly supports the UAE's ambitious smart city and autonomous mobility strategies. The RTA has been laying the groundwork for this moment, having inaugurated a dedicated Autonomous Vehicles Operations and Control Centre at Dubai Science Park in partnership with Baidu just last January.

The goal is a progressive commercial rollout, ultimately scaling to an impressive fleet of 1,000 autonomous vehicles. This initiative is distinct from the WeRide-powered robotaxi service operating in Abu Dhabi, positioning Dubai with its own, cutting-edge autonomous transit solution powered by Baidu's industry-leading technology.

What to Expect When Booking an Apollo Go Ride in Dubai

Here's how it will work for users in the GCC:

• Booking: Open the Uber app, request a ride, and if you're in the designated service zone, you may be matched with an Apollo Go autonomous vehicle.
• The Vehicle: Rides will be conducted in Baidu's latest sixth-generation robotaxi, the Apollo RT6. This vehicle is designed from the ground up for autonomous operation, featuring a spacious interior and redundant safety systems.
• The Experience: The ride will be fully driverless. Passengers can monitor the route and vehicle status via in-car screens.
• Safety: Operations will be monitored from the RTA-Baidu control centre, ensuring safety and enabling remote assistance if needed.

The GCC Angle: Pricing, Expansion, and Summer Readiness

The most pressing question for potential users is cost. No official pricing has been announced yet. Industry observers suggest fares could be competitive with UberX services, possibly with introductory promotional rates to encourage adoption in the initial launch phase.

A key consideration for any technology in the region is performance in extreme conditions. The Apollo RT6 vehicles have been tested in various climates, but their real-world endurance through a Dubai summer—with intense heat and potential sandstorms—will be a critical test. The phased rollout in Jumeirah allows the partners to gather data and optimize the system before expanding to more complex urban environments like Downtown Dubai or Sheikh Zayed Road.

This launch isn't just about convenience; it's a strategic step toward reducing traffic congestion and accidents, while positioning Dubai as a global hub for future transportation technology.

What's Next for Autonomous Rides in the UAE?

The coming month is set to be a trial by fire. As the first autonomous vehicles hit the streets of Jumeirah, all eyes will be on system reliability, public acceptance, and seamless integration with Dubai's existing transport network.

Success in the initial zones will likely trigger rapid expansion. The partnership has a clear roadmap to scale, and other emirates may watch closely, potentially leading to similar deployments across the GCC. For now, Dubai residents and visitors will soon have a chance to experience the future of transportation—a driverless ride hailed with a tap on their phone.

Source: PRNewswire, Uber Investor Relations, Gulf News, Times of India