Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has sealed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pony.ai, a Chinese autonomous vehicle technology company, to launch the trial operations of autonomous vehicles in the region.
The MoU was signed by Ahmed Hashim Bahrozyan, CEO of Public Transport Agency, and Ann Shi, Vice President of Strategy and Business Development, in the presence of several officials from both parties.
The signing ceremony was attended by His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, and Dr. Leo Wang, Chief Financial Officer of Pony.ai.
The trials are set to commence in late 2025, with plan to launch a fully driverless commercial service by 2026. This partnership supports Dubai’s commitment to adopting autonomous mobility solutions while strengthening its position as a key player in future mobility.
Recently, Pony.ai launched its seventh generation of autonomous vehicles, in collaboration with leading automotive manufacturers such as Toyota, GAC, and BAIC. Integrated with cutting-edge AI algorithms, the vehicles are supported by a sophisticated suite of sensors, such as lidars, radars, and cameras. The company ensures precise navigation and safety across varying road and weather conditions.
Pony.ai has also teamed up with leading technology firms such as Tencent and Alibaba to integrate robotaxi mobility services into platforms like WeChat and Alipay.
Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer Director-General, Chairman of Board of Executive Directors – RTA
“RTA’s continued expansion of partnerships with leading global companies in the field of autonomous mobility marks a key step towards achieving the Dubai Smart Self-Driving Transport Strategy, which aims to convert 25 percent of all trips in Dubai into autonomous journeys across various modes of transport by 2030. It underscores RTA’s commitment to working closely with global technology leaders to advance the future of smart, efficient, and sustainable mobility. The operation of autonomous taxis contributes to the integration of transport systems by facilitating the movement of public transport users and improving access to their final destinations in line with the first and last-mile strategy. Operating autonomous taxis will enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors in Dubai, improve road safety, and offer greater convenience in daily mobility across the emirate.”
Dr. Leo Wang stated that, “The collaboration with Dubai RTA exemplifies our commitment to deploying Level 4 autonomous technology in strategic global markets. By aligning our technological capabilities with RTA’s visionary leadership, we’re establishing foundational standards for intelligent transportation ecosystems across the MENA region.”
“Autonomous mobility has become a present reality. Leading global companies are accelerating the development of technologies and software that power autonomous vehicles, while governments—through the relevant licensing and regulatory authorities—are working to provide the necessary infrastructure and establish the legislative and regulatory frameworks required to enable their operation,” added Al Tayer.
