Things You Need to Know About Driverless Taxis in Dubai

As you know, Dubai is the city of innovation. Always pushing boundaries with advanced technology. This time, their new venture is a Driverless taxi. Dubai is set to deploy ten self-driving taxis for public use in the Jumeirah area by the end of 2023, According to Khaled Al Awadhi, the Transportation Systems Director at Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority.

US-based self-driving technology company Cruise, a subsidiary of General Motors (GM), operates these self-driving taxis. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about this innovative transportation revolution.

Initial Rollout in the Jumeirah Area

The initial rollout of the ten self-driving Cruise taxis will be limited to the Jumeirah area. Chosen for its strategic location and historic tourist attractions, as stated by Al Awadhi. The route will be between the Etihad Museum and Dubai Water Canal, covering an 8km stretch along Sheikh Zayed Road to the beachside in Jumeirah. 

How do driverless taxis work?

Driverless taxis use the latest technology and multiple types of sensors. Such as cameras, lidar, and radar, to perceive the state of affairs and navigate the road. These driverless cars are made with Artificial Intelligence Software. That permits them to make decisions about how to drive safely and efficiently.

Driverless cars offer various benefits, including:

• Increased Convenience: Autonomous taxis can also be hailed on demand like traditional taxis. However, You don't need to worry about finding a driver or getting lost. Driverless taxis in Dubai will take you to your destination safely.
  
  
• Increased  Efficiency: To reduce congestion on the road and improve the overall transportation system. These car s can be operated 24/7 and deployed in those areas where there is high traffic congestion. These taxis are designed more efficiently than traditional taxis, which can help to reduce petrol consumption and emissions.
  
  
• Increased Safety: Dubai's RTA has assured that safety is a top priority in the deployment of driverless taxis. The self-driving taxis will be fixed up with advanced sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence technology to ensure safe and reliable operations. 
  
  
• Improved productivity: By using a driverless taxi, people can make better use of their travel time. Whether it's studying or getting other tasks done during their commute, it can significantly enhance productivity and contribute to a healthier work-life balance for everyone.
  
  
• Reduced traffic congestion: To avoid congestion on the road, Driverless taxis can communicate with each other and manage their speed and direction. As a result, traffic congestion is reduced and shorter travel times for commuters.

Expectation from driverless cars in Dubai

Dubai's first driverless cars will be limited to the Jumeirah area. However, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) intends to operate driverless taxis in other parts of the city in the coming years.

With the aim of 2030, The plan for Dubai is to start full commercial operations of driverless cars in Dubai by next year. 25% of all city trips will be smart and driverless. If this operation is successful, Dubai will become the second city after the United States (US), where Cruise operates commercially.

Future Plans

The Cruise Origin has been created as a product of a multi-year collaboration involving Cruise, GM, and Honda, with a specific focus on its suitability for a ridesharing service. It features a spacious interior with seats facing each other, personal USB ports, and digital displays providing information about the rides

What are the challenges of driverless taxis in Dubai?

These cars are developed with new technology, and various challenges must be addressed before deployment. The first challenge is ensuring that driverless taxis are reliable and safe. Another challenge is creating rules and regulations that govern the use of driverless cars.

How to book a driverless taxi in Dubai

Once driverless taxis are launched in Dubai, People will be able to book their rides by using mobile apps. This mobile app may be similar to Uber or Careem Application. Furthermore, individuals can use the app to control the taxi air Condition (AC) and other car accessories as well.

How Much Driverless Taxi Price in Dubai

The price of driverless taxis in Dubai is expected to be slightly higher than traditional taxis.  expected that the price range will be the same as private cars like Uber and Cream. 

FAQ’s

What are driverless taxis?

Driverless taxis are self-driving vehicles that can transport passengers without the need for a human driver. They use a variety of sensors and cameras to perceive their surroundings and navigate the road.

When will driverless taxis be available in Dubai?

Driverless taxis are expected to be commercially available in Dubai by the end of 2023.

What will be the rates for driverless taxis in Dubai?

The rates for driverless taxis in Dubai are expected to be similar to those of limousine services.

Which cars are used as taxis in Dubai?

The most common cars used as taxis in Dubai are the Toyota Camry and the Hyundai Elantra.

Does Uber have self-driving cars?

Yes, Uber has a self-driving car division called Uber Advanced Technologies Group. Uber has been testing self-driving cars in several cities around the world, including Dubai.

When will flying taxis be launched in Dubai?

Flying taxis are expected to be launched in Dubai in 2026.