Dubai hosts over 3,000 global experts at self-driving congress; WeRide and Deutsche Bahn win the 2025 Dubai Challenge.
DUBAI: Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, officially inaugurated the 4th Dubai World Congress for Self-Driving Transport at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Organised by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the global event brought together more than 3,000 participants and over 80 speakers, including top officials, researchers, and technology developers. It highlighted Dubai’s leadership in autonomous mobility and smart transport innovation.
The opening ceremony included a presentation on the Dubai Self-Driving Transport Zone, a 15-square-kilometre area integrating autonomous land and marine mobility options across key locations such as Al Jaddaf Metro Station, Dubai Festival City, and Dubai Creek Harbour.
One of the major highlights was the Dubai World Challenge for Self-Driving Transport 2025, which saw participation exceed expectations by 170%. The consortium of WeRide and Deutsche Bahn secured first place for their integrated solution combining self-driving taxis and buses, earning a $900,000 prize. Singapore’s Zealous Technology claimed second place and received $300,000 for their heavy cargo and last-mile logistics solution.
Participants also heard a keynote address from Sol Rashidi, the world’s first Chief AI Officer, who shared frameworks and insights on the ethical and effective use of artificial intelligence in mobility and daily services. She emphasised the need for governments to upgrade digital infrastructure and talent to embrace such transformative technologies responsibly.
The event supports the Dubai Self-Driving Transport Strategy 2025–2040, which aims to increase autonomous trips in the city from 20.4% today to 25% by 2030 and 36% by 2040.
The Congress has cemented its role as the Middle East’s leading platform for dialogue on future transport. It encourages international cooperation, promotes smart urban living, and showcases Dubai’s vision to become the world’s most future-ready city.
