Abu Dhabi Partners with DiDi Autonomous Driving to Boost Smart Mobility Innovation

The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO)  has announced a strategic collaboration with DiDi Autonomous Driving , a subsidiary of global smart mobility technology platform DiDi Global Inc. The partnership supports the advancement of the emirate’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industries (SAVI) cluster, positioning Abu Dhabi as a regional leader in next-generation mobility innovation.

As part of the collaboration, DiDi Autonomous Driving will join Abu Dhabi’s SAVI cluster in the UAE. ADIO and DiDi Autonomous Driving will engage in developing areas such as autonomous driving technology innovation and application, AI talent development, and ecosystem building. Together, they aim to transform Abu Dhabi to a leading smart mobility and sustainable transportation ecosystem, while gradually expanding this cooperation to the broader Middle East region.

“Our collaboration with DiDi Autonomous Driving marks a defining moment in shaping the future of transport. DiDi Autonomous Driving is a world-leading autonomous driving company. and Abu Dhabi has now become its new home. We are proud to welcome DiDi Autonomous Driving to the SAVI cluster as it scales its autonomous driving technologies across the region. Together, we are setting a new standard for intelligent, safe and sustainable mobility.”

– H.E. Badr Al-Olama, Director General, Abu Dhabi Investment Office

“The Middle East is a key pillar in DiDi Autonomous Driving’s global strategy. Abu Dhabi’s vision for smart city development and sustainable growth aligns closely with our commitment to responsible technological innovation. With the support of ADIO, we look forward to collaborating with local partners to accelerate autonomous driving innovation and real-world deployment, bringing safe, reliable, and intelligent mobility experiences to users across the Middle East.”

– Wang Yue, Vice President, DiDi Autonomous Driving

The arrival of DiDi Autonomous Driving further strengthens the SAVI cluster, which is expected to contribute AED 44 billion to Abu Dhabi’s GDP and create up to 40,000 jobs by 2045, generating substantial economic value for Abu Dhabi by fostering advanced industries and high-skilled employment.