UAE Cabinet approves testing of self-driving vehicles on its roads

UAE Cabinet approves testing of self-driving vehicles on its roads

Abu Dhabi: For self-driving cars to operate on its roads, the UAE has authorised the first licence of its kind. The approval was given at a Cabinet meeting on Monday (July 3, 2023) chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. It was the first licence of its kind for self-driving vehicles to run on the country’s roads. The licence has been granted to WeRide company, which will test different types of autonomous vehicles. The Cabinet also approved a national policy for electric vehicles, which includes building a network for electric vehicle charging devices, regulating the EV market, and stimulating related industries to ensure the reduction of emissions, reduce energy consumption, among others. “As the world rapidly evolves, so do our patterns of mobility. In the coming years, we anticipate significant changes in the way people live and move within the country. The well being, comfort, and quality of life of our citizens and residents will remain top priority on our government’s agenda,” Sheikh Mohammed said. During the same meeting, Sheikh Mohammed also approved an updated national energy strategy to cope with rapid changes in the energy