Baidu Launches Driverless Taxi Service Expanding Dubai Smart Mobility
Baidu launched a fully driverless ride-hailing service in Dubai, marking its first international rollout of the Apollo Go app. As a result, the launch represents a major step for autonomous mobility in the Middle East.
Now, residents and visitors can hail rides in vehicles operating without a human safety driver through the Apollo Go platform. Moreover, the rollout comes through partnerships with Roads and Transport Authority and Dubai Taxi Company, which provides local operational support. Consequently, the service integrates directly into the city’s broader transportation network.
From Testing Phase to Commercial Scale
Earlier in January 2026, Apollo Go secured Dubai’s first permit for fully driverless vehicle testing on public roads. Therefore, the company quickly transitioned from trials to full commercial deployment. In addition, it established a 2,000-square-meter operations and control center at Dubai Science Park, which serves as its first such facility outside China.
Meanwhile, authorities are introducing the autonomous fleet in phases under regulatory supervision. Initially, around 100 vehicles have joined Dubai’s transport system, and expansion will follow steadily. Furthermore, users will soon be able to hail Apollo Go robotaxis through the Uber app at designated locations.
Looking ahead, Baidu plans to scale the fleet to more than 1,000 autonomous vehicles over the coming years. This effort aligns with Dubai’s ambition to make 25 percent of all transport trips smart and driverless by 2030.
Global Expansion of Autonomous Mobility
At the same time, Dubai forms part of Apollo Go’s broader international strategy. As of early 2026, the platform has completed over 20 million rides worldwide, demonstrating strong adoption. Earlier, it also launched fully autonomous operations in Abu Dhabi through a partnership with AutoGo, beginning on Yas Island.
Beyond the Gulf region, Baidu has expanded collaborations with Uber and Lyft to introduce robotaxi trials in London. While Uber plans a pilot in the first half of 2026, Lyft aims to begin testing after regulatory approval.
Lyft CEO David Risher said on X that the London fleet would start with several vehicles and scale to hundreds.
