Baidu's Apollo Go partners with Dubai RTA for robotaxi deployment

Baidu's autonomous ride-hailing platform, Apollo Go, has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to launch autonomous driving services in the city. The plan includes deploying 100 fully autonomous vehicles by the end of 2025, with a goal of expanding the fleet to 1,000 by 2028.

This partnership signifies Apollo Go’s first fleet deployment outside of mainland China and Hong Kong, marking its entry into the Middle East. The collaboration aims to support Dubai’s goal of making 25% of the city's transportation autonomous by 2030.

Yunpeng Wang, Corporate Vice President of Baidu, noted the synergy between Apollo Go’s mission and Dubai's vision for autonomous transportation. Baidu plans to share its technical and operational expertise, developed through extensive deployment in major Chinese cities, including a large-scale operation in Wuhan.

As Apollo Go prepares for deployment, all tests and services will align with Dubai's regulations and be adapted for local needs. The RT6 robotaxi, which is the model to be used, is designed for driverless mobility and features enhanced reliability and comfort.

This agreement follows a visit by Baidu CEO Robin Li to Dubai, where he engaged with local leaders. The partnership highlights the UAE government's support for Apollo Go’s technology. With this move, Apollo Go continues to expand its global footprint, following its recent testing in Hong Kong and now entering Dubai as its first international market for fleet deployment.

As the collaboration progresses, Apollo Go remains focused on offering safe and intelligent mobility services, aiming to enhance Dubai's transportation ecosystem.