Chinese autonomous driving technology company WeRide has launched fully driverless robotaxi trial operations in Abu Dhabi.

Starting this quarter, WeRide will operate a fleet of robotaxis on public roads in the UAE capital without a safety driver on board, in what the company called a “major milestone” for the region’s smart mobility push.

The trial is accompanied by an expansion of WeRide’s service coverage to include Al Maryah Island – home to the Abu Dhabi Global Market financial centre – and Al Reem Island, a key residential and commercial district.

The two new areas add to WeRide’s existing operations on Yas Island, Saadiyat Island and the corridors connecting to Zayed International Airport, where the company has been active since 2021.

“WeRide makes history as the first company to pilot fully driverless robotaxis in the Middle East region, showcasing our autonomous leadership in one of the world’s most dynamic urban environments,” said Jennifer Li, CFO and head of International at WeRide.

“In parallel, we’re expanding commercial service to high-demand areas like Al Maryah and Al Reem Islands – bringing smart mobility solutions to more users in the Middle East. Together, these demonstrate our technological maturity while moving us closer to mass commercialisation of robotaxis,” Li added.

The UAE is a key market for WeRide

WeRide, which received the UAE’s first national self-driving vehicle license in July 2023, has identified the country as a key market in its international expansion strategy.

In December 2024, the company launched a robotaxi ride-hailing partnership with Uber in Abu Dhabi the largest of its kind outside China and the US.

The company also serves as a member of the Infrastructure, Regulations, and Pilot Acceleration Working Group under the Abu Dhabi Smart & Autonomous Systems Council, contributing to the development of local infrastructure and autonomous mobility legislation.

Commercial driverless rides and additional coverage areas are expected to roll out progressively from summer 2025, pending regulatory approvals.

WeRide operates in over 30 cities across 10 countries and holds driverless permits in China, the UAE, Singapore, France, and the US. Its WeRide One platform supports autonomous driving solutions across mobility, logistics, and sanitation sectors.

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has streamlined its driver licensing services, reducing the number of services by 53 per cent, from 33 to 15.

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This move is part of ongoing efforts to deliver a seamless, secure, and integrated digital experience focused on customer satisfaction. It aligns with the Government of Dubai’s vision to enhance the quality of life through improved public services across the emirate.

“The initiative to re-engineer the customer journey and simplify the process of obtaining a driver’s licence through smart channels is part of a comprehensive roadmap to enhance RTA’s services and improve the overall customer experience,” said Sultan Al Akraf, Director of Driver Licensing at the RTA’s Licensing Agency.

He added, “The initiative focuses on harnessing advanced technologies and data integration to improve driver licensing services and enable customers to access all RTA services through a unified app. This app serves vehicle owners, drivers, and public transport users. It forms part of the ‘Services 360’ plan within RTA’s Dubai App, which reflects a new, integrated vision for delivering seamless, proactive, and comprehensive services tailored to evolving customer needs.”

“RTA remains committed to enhancing service quality for both corporate and individual customers, adhering to the highest international standards. This commitment is supported by smart solutions, advanced customer services, streamlined procedures, and continuous improvements in operational efficiency and sustainability,” Al Akraf said.

Re-engineering the customer journey

Al Akraf explained that the re-engineering of the customer journey aims to simplify procedures by reducing steps and visits, minimizing waiting times, and improving operational efficiency while strengthening integration with other government platforms.

Range of streamlined services

The range of services that have been simplified includes applying for or managing a driver’s licence, adding new vehicle categories, transferring a trainee’s file between driving institutes, updating personal information, renewing a licence, and requesting replacements in case of loss or damage. Proactive notifications have been introduced, and all these services are now fully accessible online via RTA’s official website through simplified steps, eliminating the need for in-person visits. A comprehensive suite of additional driver-focused services is also available.

One of the largest publicly traded steel and building materials manufacturers in the region, EMSTEEL has reported Q1 revenue of Dhs2.2bn for 2025, a 1 per cent increase year-on-year despite lower average steel prices and minimal semi-finished product sales.

The group’s strong operational performance saw finished goods steel production rise 17 per cent and sales volumes increase 21 per cent YoY to 811,000 tonnes, buoyed by robust construction activity in the UAE and effective market positioning.

In contrast to Q1 2024, when nearly 100,000 tonnes of billets were sold, all semi-finished products in Q1 2025 were converted into finished goods to meet customer demand.

EMSTEEL divisional highlghts

Sales volumes for Emirates Cement also grew 17 per cent YoY.

Despite a 6 per cent drop in average steel prices and the absence of billet sales — which accounted for 10 per cent of Q1 2024 revenue — EMSTEEL posted Dhs266m in EBITDA, with an EBITDA margin of 12.3 per cent, compared to 13.7 per cent in the prior-year period. Profit before tax stood at Dhs94m, while net profit after tax was Dhs86m.

The Emirates Steel division contributed Dhs1.96bn in revenue and Dhs226m in EBITDA. Emirates Cement generated Dhs205m in revenue and Dhs40m in EBITDA.

Within the cement division, the Pipes & Other segment, currently under divestment and reported as Assets Held for Sale, contributed Dhs45m in revenue.

As of March 31, EMSTEEL reported a strong liquidity position with Dhs881m in cash on hand, up from Dhs823m at year-end 2024.

The group also announced the launch of a Dhs625m Asset Enhancement Programme aimed at upgrading rolling mills and expanding its portfolio to include high-strength steel products such as ES600 and ASTM Grade 80/100 rebars. Plans also include installing a new 500 KTPA wire rod outlet.

Comprehensive decarbonisation roadmap revealed

Additionally, EMSTEEL revealed its comprehensive decarbonisation roadmap, targeting a 40 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from its steel business and a 30 per cent reduction from its cement business by 2030, with net-zero emissions set for 2050.

Strategic agreements signed with Hafeet Rail Infrastructure and Minerals Development Oman (MDO) will facilitate sustainable cross-border transport of up to 4.2 million tonnes of raw materials annually from Oman to the UAE.

The group also partnered with Yellow Door Energy to develop a 31.5 MWp solar PV rooftop project across 40 facility roofs in Abu Dhabi’s ICAD 1, slated for commissioning in 2026.

“EMSTEEL’s performance in Q1 2025 underscores our ability to deliver consistent value through operational excellence and strategic foresight,” said Engineer Saeed Ghumran Al Remeithi, group CEO. “Our strategic investments — ranging from decarbonisation and advanced production upgrades to regional logistics and solar infrastructure—demonstrate our long-term vision for sustainable, shareholder-driven growth.”

A recent study from Wyndham Hotels & Resorts uncovers some exciting insights into how Gen Z travellers in the UAE are approaching travel.

From cultural connections to digital tools, this next generation of explorers is redefining travel as we know it.

Here’s a look at the key trends shaping their journeys.

1. Social media as the travel guide

For UAE’s Gen Z, social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok are not just for entertainment; they’re key tools for travel inspiration. In fact, 26 per cent of Gen Z travellers in the UAE say that these platforms are their biggest travel influences, helping them decide where to go, what to do, and how to get there.

2. Self-planned, AI-assisted travel

Gone are the days of relying solely on travel agents. Gen Z is all about self-planning. A staggering 79 per cent of UAE Gen Z respondents either already use or are excited to use AI tools to design their dream getaways, putting the power of travel planning at their fingertips.

3. Purposeful travel

For this generation, travel isn’t just about taking a break; it’s about purpose. The top motivator for travel is to unwind and disconnect (32 per cent ), followed by exploring new cultures and seeking adventure. This trend reflects a broader shift towards experience-first travel that contributes to personal growth and development.

4. Women are leading the charge

Gen Z women in the UAE are travelling internationally at a higher rate than their male counterparts. 54 per cebt of women have travelled abroad in the last six months, compared to just 34 per cent of men.

This trend highlights the growing independence and mobility of young women in the region, who are eager to explore the world on their own terms.

5. Travel is a priority, not a luxury

Travel has become an essential part of life for many young UAE residents. Gen Z is proving that they’re willing to cut back on material goods to make room for experiences that offer personal meaning and cultural connection.

In fact, 41 per cent of Gen Z respondents in the UAE travelled internationally in the past six months, with many prioritising travel over other expenses.

6. The desire for authentic, culturally immersive stays

When it comes to accommodations, Gen Z wants to stay somewhere that offers more than just a bed. 63 per cent of UAE Gen Z respondents prefer hotels that reflect local culture, whether it’s through design, food, or curated experiences.

This generation is looking for a deeper connection to the places they visit, and they’re gravitating toward brands that are rooted in the local community.

7. Eco-conscious travel choices

Sustainability is a top priority for Gen Z, both in terms of the environment and the experiences they seek. More than half (55 per cent ) of Gen Z respondents in the UAE choose sustainable transport options, and over a third (36 per cent) actively look for eco-friendly hotels when booking their stays.

This generation is seeking out destinations and properties that align with their values and contribute to a lower environmental footprint.

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Investment bank China International Capital Corporation (CICC) has officially launched its branch at Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), strengthening China’s financial presence in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region.

Operating under China International Capital Corporation Hong Kong Securities and trading as CICC (DIFC Branch), the new office holds a category 4 license and is regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA).

CICC’s entry into DIFC comes amid deepening economic ties between China and the UAE, and further underscores Dubai’s growing role as a hub for Chinese financial institutions.

Currently, around 30 per cent of Chinese firms operating in DIFC are Fortune 500 companies.

Dubai a top destination for Chinese investments

“Dubai and DIFC remain a top destination for Chinese investments, further accentuated by a surge in interest from banks, wealth and asset management firms, large corporations, and insurance sector market players,” said Essa Kazim, governor of DIFC. “We are delighted to welcome CICC to DIFC, bolstering the strategic relations between the UAE and China.”

Kazim added that DIFC provides a well-developed ecosystem designed to support Chinese businesses looking to scale across MEASA, and pointed to growing synergies between China’s strengths in research and technology and Dubai’s ambition to lead in artificial intelligence through initiatives such as the Dubai AI Campus.

Chen Liang, chairman of CICC, said the launch of the CICC DIFC Branch is a “significant milestone” in the bank’s international expansion strategy. “CICC remains committed to delivering innovative financial solutions that facilitate cross-border capital flows and foster deeper economic ties between China and key global markets,” Chen said. “

From UAE, a key gateway for the Gulf region, we will build tailored solutions to serve regional clients’ evolving needs while supporting Chinese enterprises seeking strategic opportunities abroad,” he added.

CICC to enable two-way investment banking gateway

CICC is positioning the new Dubai branch as a premier two-way investment banking gateway between China and the Gulf region.

The bank plans to work closely with sovereign wealth funds, financial institutions, and major corporations to structure cross-border investments and facilitate greater participation in China’s capital market projects.

Founded as China’s first joint venture investment bank, CICC has been instrumental in the development of China’s capital markets. It combines global best practices with deep local expertise across investment banking, asset management, FICC (fixed income, currencies, and commodities), wealth management, and private equity.

It operates globally through offices in Hong Kong SAR, New York, London, Singapore, Frankfurt, and Tokyo.

With the DIFC launch, CICC is seeking to deepen financial ties under China’s Belt and Road Initiative, while expanding its influence in the region’s financial services ecosystem.