Driverless Taxi
Courtesy of RTA

Imagine hailing a driverless taxi off the road to avoid Dubai traffic. Soon enough that will become a reality. RTA has announced that they aim to launch driverless taxis as early as December 2023.

After years of preparation and months of digital planning, the introduction of driverless taxis in Dubai is becoming a reality. The autonomous taxis will be tested in Jumeirah 1 starting October 1, to guarantee the security of future passengers. No passengers will be permitted to ride in the taxis until the final safety testing phase is over.

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum announced that by “2030, 25% of all transportation trips in Dubai will be smart and driverless.”

Driverless taxis are expected to significantly enhance road safety, as more than 90% of accidents are caused by human faults. These vehicles are powered by all-electric technology, are eco-friendly and can accommodate a variety of customers from various community groups, such as senior citizens and people with disabilities.

The cost of these taxis is still being decided. It is possible that it will be comparable to the prices of limo taxis.

This is just the beginning for autonomous transportation methods in Dubai, with the metro being the first driverless mode of transportation.