Residents and visitors can try autonomous robotaxis at no cost
Fancy taking a taxi ride that doesn’t cost a single dirham, and doesn’t have a driver either? On Yas Island, that futuristic experience is now a reality.
Abu Dhabi has expanded its autonomous taxi programme, bringing more self-driving vehicles onto the roads and offering the public the chance to try them completely free of charge. The initiative is part of the emirate’s wider push toward smarter, tech-powered transport.
The rollout is being overseen by the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council and the Integrated Transport Centre, also known as Abu Dhabi Mobility. Together, they’re building an ecosystem that aims to transform how people move around the capital.
Two operators are now involved in the programme. One is Apollo Go, developed by Chinese technology giant Baidu. The latest addition is Autogo, part of the UAE-based technology group K2.
Together, they’re creating a growing fleet of robotaxis cruising around Yas Island, offering residents and visitors a glimpse of what everyday travel could look like in the near future.
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The vehicles operate at Level 4 autonomy, meaning they can drive themselves without human intervention under specific conditions.
Although the cars are capable of navigating independently, the programme has been introduced gradually following extensive testing and operational trials.
The ITC (Abu Dhabi Mobility) announced the expansion of the commercial operation of autonomous taxi services on Yas Island, in collaboration with Apollo Go and AutoGo, as part of the commercial expansion plan for autonomous mobility services in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi… pic.twitter.com/TphntxtN9A
— أبوظبي للتنقل | AD Mobility (@ad_mobility) March 13, 2026
Trying the service is straightforward. Simply download the Autogo app, request a ride and hop in just like you would with any regular ride-hailing service.
The difference is that the driver’s seat remains empty while a network of sensors, cameras and artificial intelligence handles the journey.
Officials say introducing multiple operators is a key step in building Abu Dhabi’s smart mobility network, helping improve efficiency while supporting more sustainable transport options.
The free rides are designed to encourage people to experience autonomous travel firsthand.
For now, the service is operating around Yas Island, but plans are already in place to expand to other major destinations including Al Reem Island, Al Maryah Island and Saadiyat Island.
Meanwhile, the emirate’s wider push toward autonomous transport continues to gather pace.
In late February, Tesla also began supervised trials of its self-driving technology on Abu Dhabi roads, highlighting the capital’s growing reputation as a testing ground for next-generation mobility.
For now, though, visitors to Yas Island can enjoy a ride that feels straight out of the future, and one that doesn’t cost a thing.
Buckle up, tap the app and let the robot take the wheel.
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