Dubai’s First Autonomous Taxi on Show at Gitex

The emirate’s Road and Transport Authority declared that Dubai’s first self-driving taxi will take a test run during Gitex Technology Week. Other exhibits will also include Dubai Metro spare parts manufactured through 3D printing, the AI-based automated Chat Bot system, and robotic cleaners for Dubai Metro stations, he said in a statement.

Mattar Al Tayer, director general and chairman of the board of executive directors of the RTA informed media that the autonomous vehicle would be tested on dedicated routes at Dubai Silicon Oasis initially.

The new initiatives are part of plans to transform Dubai into the smartest city worldwide, he said, adding that they will also contribute to the implementation of the Dubai Smart Self-Driving Mobility Strategy that aims to transform 25 percent of Dubai’s total journeys into self-driving transit means by 2030.

The launch of these driverless taxis is aimed at ensuring last mile connectivity, helping Dubai Metro and tram passengers reach their final destinations. “The autonomous taxi contributes towards the integration of mass transport systems by facilitating the movement of public transport users, specifically Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram, to reach their final destinations (last mile)” Mattar Al Tayer, told media.

The taxi is equipped with cameras and sensors that analyse traffic and road conditions and report the car’s speed and direction to avoid collisions. The autonomous taxi was designed by RTA in collaboration with Dubai Silicon Oasis and DG World for robots and artificial applications.

The authorities also plan to unveil robot cleaners at Dubai Metro stations on Sunday. An artificial intelligence-automated Chat Bot system that responds to customer inquiries using smart communication will also be exhibited.  The goal was set in concurrence with the Dubai Smart Self-Driving vision launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, in 2016. Gitex Technology Week commenced in Dubai on October 14.