Abu Dhabi has expanded its driverless taxi services on Yas Island with the addition of a new operator, Autogo, marking another step forward in the emirate’s autonomous mobility plans.

The expansion is being implemented in collaboration with Apollo Go, a subsidiary of China’s technology company Baidu, while Autogo, a subsidiary of K2, will serve as the local operator joining the growing ecosystem of autonomous transport providers.

The move follows the successful completion of testing and operational trials on Yas Island, allowing the service to transition into commercial operations for Level 4 autonomous taxis, which are capable of operating without human intervention in most conditions.

Residents and visitors can access the service through the AutoGo smart application, available on both Android and Apple app stores.

According to Waleed Alblooshi, Vice President of Strategy at K2, the rides will be offered free of charge at this stage, allowing the public to experience autonomous mobility as a practical transportation option before the service moves to full commercial operations.

Driverless taxi services are also expected to expand in the future to Al Reem Island, Al Maryah Island, and Al Saadiyat Island, as part of Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to introduce smart mobility solutions across the emirate.

The initiative forms part of Abu Dhabi’s long-term vision to expand autonomous mobility services, diversify operators, and strengthen the overall readiness of the transport ecosystem.

In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, has issued Law No. (5) of 2026 regulating the outsourcing of government services in Dubai.

The new law aims to enhance the efficiency and quality of government services while making them more accessible to customers. It also seeks to strengthen collaboration between the public and private sectors, support Dubai’s strategic goals, and create more private-sector job opportunities for UAE nationals.

What the new law says

Under the law, outsourcing allows a contracted company to provide some or all government services on behalf of a government entity, based on agreed terms and conditions. The regulation aligns with global best practices to ensure transparency, efficiency, and improved service delivery.

The law outlines the role of the Department of Finance in overseeing government service outsourcing, including setting the rules, procedures, and compliance requirements for such arrangements. Contractors must be licensed private for-profit or non-profit organisations authorised to operate in Dubai.

Who is allowed to engage contractors?

Government entities are allowed to engage multiple contractors for the same service, ensuring fair competition. Exclusive contracts are only permitted if a contractor is the sole bidder.

The legislation also defines the contents and duration of outsourcing contracts, rules for termination, and protections for contractor assets. It includes provisions on violations and penalties, and allows contractors to assist in collecting fines related to service users who breach applicable regulations.

However, contractors whose employees are granted judicial enforcement authority are prohibited from imposing fines or administrative penalties beyond those specified in the government entity’s regulations.

Who will monitor performance?

Government entities must also monitor and evaluate contractor performance regularly, using performance indicators aligned with their strategic objectives.

In addition, contractors are required to employ at least one UAE national for every non-national employee, with salaries and incentives determined according to applicable regulations and contract terms.

The law states that Law No. (12) of 2020 on Contracts and Warehouse Management in the Dubai Government will apply to contractor selection procedures and any matters not addressed in outsourcing contracts.

Government entities and contractors have three years to align their operations with the provisions of the new law, which comes into force upon publication in the Official Gazette.

The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has confirmed that all vital transport services across Abu Dhabi are operating normally, with no disruption to services.

Authorities said operations continue in line with approved operational and business continuity plans, ensuring that transport systems remain fully functional despite regional developments.

The services operating without interruption include the road network and related infrastructure, traffic management systems and control rooms, public bus and taxi services, freight transport operations, and regulatory functions across land, maritime, and aviation sectors.

Officials also confirmed that precautionary measures are being implemented in coordination with relevant authorities to maintain operational stability and ensure the smooth flow of traffic across the emirate.

DMT emphasised that the safety of residents, commuters, and road users remains a top priority.

Residents and travellers are advised to follow official and accredited channels for updates and information regarding transport services and road conditions.