Dubai: Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pony.ai, a company specializing in autonomous driving technologies, to commence pilot trials of autonomous vehicles in the emirate. The trials are scheduled to begin later this year, paving the way for the launch of a fully driverless commercial service in 2026.
According to Emirates News Agency, Pony.ai recently unveiled the seventh generation of its autonomous vehicles, developed with automotive manufacturers such as Toyota, GAC, and BAIC. These vehicles are equipped with advanced artificial intelligence algorithms, supported by sensors like lidars, radars, and cameras, to ensure precise navigation and safety across various conditions.
The company has also partnered with technology firms such as Tencent and Alibaba to integrate robotaxi mobility services into platforms like WeChat and Alipay. The signing ceremony of the MoU included Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai's RTA, and Dr. Leo Wang, Chief Financial Officer of Pony.ai.
The MoU was signed on behalf of RTA by Ahmed Hashim Bahrozyan, CEO of Public Transport Agency, and on behalf of Pony.ai by Ann Shi, Vice President of Strategy and Business Development, with several officials from both parties present.
Mattar Al Tayer highlighted the significance of the partnership with Pony.ai, stating that it supports Dubai's efforts to adopt autonomous mobility solutions and reinforces its global leadership in future mobility. He expressed appreciation for Pony.ai's decision to choose Dubai as its platform for expanding operations beyond China.
Al Tayer noted that RTA's partnerships with global companies in autonomous mobility are a step toward achieving the Dubai Smart Self-Driving Transport Strategy, aiming to convert 25% of all trips in Dubai to autonomous journeys by 2030. He emphasized RTA's commitment to advancing smart, efficient, and sustainable mobility.
He stated that autonomous taxis would improve transport system integration, enhance road safety, and offer greater convenience in daily mobility across Dubai. Al Tayer mentioned that autonomous mobility is now a reality, with companies and governments working to enable their operation.
Pony.ai CFO Dr. Leo Wang highlighted the regional significance of the partnership, stating that the collaboration with Dubai RTA exemplifies their commitment to deploying Level 4 autonomous technology in strategic global markets. By aligning their technological capabilities with RTA's leadership, they are establishing standards for intelligent transportation ecosystems across the MENA region.
