Dubai’s RTA signs MoU with Here to enable self-driving cars

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has signed a preliminary memorandum of understanding (MoU) with car navigation firm Here Technologies to map the emirate’s streets for self-driving cars.

The agreement aims to see Dubai mapped with high definition technology for the first time as the emirate prepares to make 25 per cent of public transport journeys self-driving by 2030.

Under the plan, RTA and Here will conduct pilots to enable the latter’s self-updating road map for autonomous cars, which will then be used by public service vehicles.

“RTA has always been a forerunner in harnessing the most sophisticated technologies through collaborating with the world’s best providers taking into consideration the contribution to make Dubai the world’s smartest city and make its residents, tourists and visitors happy and satisfied,” said RTA CEO for technology support services Abdulla Al Madani.

The RTA has been progressing with a plan to drive forward self-driving transport in Dubai after receiving approval in June last year. The strategy encompasses all mass transit modes including trains, buses, boats and taxis and also involves new legislation, mapping and licensing for self-driving vehicles.

Read: Dubai’s new self driving strategy approved

Over the last two years it has also been conducting pilots using small autonomous vehicles on tracks in major areas of the city.

Read: RTA, Emaar sign deal to launch driverless vehicles in Downtown Dubai

Here is majority owned by a consortium of German automakers Audi, BMW and Daimler after their $2.9bn acquisition of the firm from Nokia in August 2015.

Last month, German automotive suppliers Continental and Bosch each bought a 5 per cent stake in the company.