Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has taken a major leap into the future of transportation by launching fully autonomous robot taxis powered by Baidu Apollo Go, a self-driving ride-hailing platform. These robot-taxis — capable of operating on public roads without human safety drivers — represent one of the most significant deployments of autonomous ride-hailing technology outside China and showcase Dubai’s commitment to smart, innovative urban mobility. First-of-Its-Kind Permit and Operations The RTA granted Baidu Apollo Go a first-of-its-kind permit to operate fully driverless vehicles in Dubai, allowing commercial trials and services on designated public streets without a human in the driver’s seat. This regulatory milestone is the foundation for an early-2026 rollout of autonomous robotaxi services, moving the technology from pilot trials to real-world application. Supporting the initiative is an Autonomous Vehicles Operations and Control Centre, a specialised hub that manages infrastructure, real-time supervision, training, and safety monitoring for the autonomous fleet. The centre underscores Dubai’s readiness to integrate cutting-edge transport solutions within its broader smart city framework. Expanding Urban Coverage and Public Access Initial deployment plans involve rolling out robotaxi services across multiple strategic locations throughout the city, with vehicles available for app-based booking and 24/7 service. This… Read MoreBusiness Archives – Trak.in – Indian Business of Tech, Mobile & Startups
