Pony.ai Partners with Dubai to Revolutionize Autonomous Mobility

Introduction to the Partnership

On May 26, 2025, Pony.ai, a key player in autonomous driving technology listed on NASDAQ under the ticker PONY, announced a groundbreaking partnership with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). This collaboration aims to deploy an advanced fleet of robotaxis in one of the world’s most innovative metropolitan areas. By entering into this Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), both entities are emphasizing their commitment to transforming the future of transportation in Dubai.

The Vision for Autonomous Transport in Dubai

Mr. Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO of the Public Transport Agency at RTA, expressed that this partnership is a significant step towards realizing Dubai’s Self-Driving Transport Strategy. The aim is ambitious: transitioning 25% of all journeys in the city to autonomous trips by 2030. Bahrozyan highlighted the collaboration’s value in solidifying Dubai’s status as a leader in autonomous mobility and innovation.

Pony.ai’s Mission and Commitment

Dr. Leo Wang, CFO of Pony.ai, echoed this sentiment, noting that Dubai is at the forefront of intelligent urban mobility. His statement reflects the company’s eagerness to combine its proven autonomous technology with operational expertise, aiming to accelerate the city’s transition toward autonomous transportation. This collaboration aligns perfectly with Dubai’s overarching 2030 Smart City Vision.

Implementation Timeline and Phased Rollout

The implementation of Pony.ai’s autonomous driving technology will occur in multiple phases. Initial supervised trials are set to begin in 2025, paving the way for fully driverless operations in 2026. This structured approach ensures a methodical introduction of autonomous services, allowing for adjustments based on feedback and real-world testing.

Expanding the Robotaxi Fleet

An integral part of Pony.ai’s strategy is the mass production and deployment of its latest seventh-generation robotaxis, slated to begin in the latter half of 2025. This pivotal initiative underlies the company’s ambition for global expansion, with plans to ramp up their fleet to thousands of vehicles within two years.

Cutting-Edge Technology Behind the Robotaxis

Pony.ai’s seventh-generation autonomous driving system has garnered attention for its technological advancements, recently showcased at Auto Shanghai 2025. The system features a hardware suite that achieves a remarkable 70% reduction in Bill of Materials (BOM) costs while upholding stringent automotive-grade standards. The innovative sensor array enables these robotaxis to navigate complex scenarios, from high-speed highways to the bustling urban landscape of Dubai.

Collaborations with Industry Leaders

To facilitate vehicle production, Pony.ai has teamed up with industry giants, including Toyota, GAC Motor, and BAIC Motor, to develop these state-of-the-art robotaxis. Following their successful debut in Shanghai in April 2025, the vehicles are poised for mass deployment later this year, further validating Pony.ai’s readiness for large-scale operations.

Comprehensive Robotaxi Operation System

Pony.ai not only focuses on vehicle manufacturing but has also established a sophisticated robotaxi operating system. This system automates every aspect, from vehicle dispatch to service conclusion. In China, Pony.ai was the first company to offer fully driverless ride-hailing services in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, showcasing its ability to navigate complex urban environments.

Enhancing Urban Mobility in Dubai

Leo Wang emphasized the expertise gained from years of operations in China, which will be instrumental as Pony.ai integrates its robotaxi services into Dubai’s multimodal transport network. This strategy aims to combine autonomous vehicle services with existing transport options, such as metro, tram, and maritime routes, ultimately enhancing the overall travel experience while reducing the city’s carbon footprint.

Global Testing Permits and Future Aspirations

To date, Pony.ai has secured robotaxi testing permits in four major global markets: the United States, China, South Korea, and Luxembourg. The partnership with Dubai expands their international footprint, marking a significant milestone in their expansion endeavors within the Middle East.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Pony.ai and Dubai’s RTA signals a transformative phase for autonomous transportation. As both entities work towards integrating cutting-edge technology into everyday transit, they pave the way for a future where mobility is not only efficient but also safer and environmentally sustainable. The upcoming years will be pivotal as these innovations begin to reshape how residents and visitors navigate the bustling city of Dubai.