Dubai RTA puts self-driving tech to the test in China

Dubai: A high-level technical delegation from Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has concluded a series of comprehensive field tests in China, evaluating the latest self-driving technologies being developed for the Dubai World Challenge for Self-Driving Transport 2025.

The evaluations, conducted across Guangzhou, Xi’an, Guiyang, and Suzhou, are part of a rigorous selection process for the 4th edition of the Challenge, which offers a total prize pool of $3 million. The event is one of the key initiatives under Dubai’s broader vision to transform 25 per cent of all trips in the emirate into smart and autonomous journeys by 2030.

Technical readiness

Speaking about the visit, Ahmed Hashem Bahrozyan, CEO of RTA’s Public Transport Agency and Chairman of the Challenge’s Organising Committee, said the mission was designed to assess the technical readiness and real-world capabilities of participating consortia.

“Our team focused on testing the performance, safety features, and technological maturity of a range of autonomous vehicles. This included robotaxis, robobuses, autonomous boats, and a logistics vehicle — all operating under real and simulated conditions,” Bahrozyan said.

Real-World readiness

The RTA team, supported by global experts from FEV Consulting, Arthur D. Little, and members of the Challenge’s advisory jury, conducted evaluations across three categories.

Standstill tests

These covered stationary system performance, such as blind spot detection, sensor range, safety protocols, and mobile application functionality.

Mixed traffic tests

Vehicles were tested on public roads and waterways to assess adaptability to real-time traffic, speed regulation, roundabout navigation, and interaction with pedestrians and other users.

Dedicated scenario tests

Conducted in controlled environments, these trials simulated specific scenarios such as stop-and-go operations, remote handling, and end-to-end passenger journeys.

Each vehicle underwent a comprehensive set of trials using precision tools and performance benchmarks to ensure compliance with international safety standards and RTA‘s challenge criteria.

Mobility innovation

The visit also included tours of the participating companies’ headquarters, R&D centres, manufacturing facilities, and operational hubs, aimed at fostering long-term partnerships and technical exchange.

“This initiative reflects Dubai’s commitment to being at the forefront of autonomous transport. By directly engaging with global innovators, we are not only evaluating the best technologies but also laying the groundwork for future collaboration,” Bahrozyan added.

Global Self-Driving Congress

The Challenge is being held alongside the Dubai World Congress for Self-Driving Transport 2025, taking place on 24—25 September under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council.

Held under the theme “Redefining Mobility: The Path to Autonomy,” the congress is set to host policymakers, tech developers, researchers, and global thought leaders, positioning Dubai as a hub for autonomous innovation.

The event underscores Dubai’s ambition to redefine urban mobility and lead the global transition toward smarter, more sustainable transport ecosystems.