Home / Technology / Dubai Launches Driverless Taxis: Future Arrives!
Dubai Launches Driverless Taxis: Future Arrives!
6 Feb
Summary
- Dubai has officially launched Baidu's Apollo Go driverless RT6 taxi vehicles.
- The autonomous taxi fleet is planned to expand to over 1,000 vehicles.
- Dubai's new control center is Baidu's first outside of China.
Dubai has officially commenced operations for its driverless RT6 taxi vehicles, a project spearheaded by Baidu's Apollo Go. The launch was marked by the Crown Prince of Dubai, Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, using an autonomous vehicle to arrive at the World Governments Summit 2026.
This initiative represents the first phase of a larger plan by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Initially, 100 driverless taxis will begin services next month, with aspirations to grow the fleet to over 1,000 vehicles. The autonomous network is designed for future integration into Dubai's broader transportation system.
To support this expansion, Baidu's Apollo Go has inaugurated an autonomous vehicle operations and control center in Dubai. This facility, the company's first outside China, will oversee fleet management, vehicle monitoring, software updates, and safety protocols, ensuring efficient and secure operations.
The RT6 vehicles are equipped with advanced sensors, including LiDAR and radar, enabling them to navigate complex urban environments. Their sophisticated software platform uses real-time data and deep-learning algorithms to safely interact with traffic, pedestrians, and other road users, adhering strictly to regulations.
