Tesla Self-Driving Cars Begin Supervised Road Trials in Abu Dhabi

Electric vehicle giant has launched supervised road trials of its latest self-driving technology in , marking a significant step in the emirate’s push toward advanced mobility solutions.

The trials are being conducted with drivers behind the wheel under a structured safety programme designed to evaluate the system’s real-world performance before any wider rollout.

Oversight and Regulation

The initiative is overseen by the (Abu Dhabi Mobility), with support from the .

Testing is being coordinated with the ’s Legislation Lab to ensure innovation takes place within approved regulatory frameworks. Authorities say the programme aims to create a regional model for testing driver-assistance and autonomous technologies while maintaining strict safety standards.

Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, described the trials as a “qualitative step” to assess the technology’s readiness and collect operational data in real traffic conditions.

He emphasized the need to balance innovation with road safety, in line with Abu Dhabi’s vision for a smarter and more sustainable transport network.

Expanding Autonomous Mobility

The supervised Tesla trials form part of Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to explore advanced transport technologies.

The emirate has already launched fully driverless robotaxi services operating without human drivers onboard. These autonomous vehicles, available through , initially operated in Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, and Masdar City before expanding to Al Reem Island and Al Maryah Island.

Currently, around 50 autonomous vehicles are licensed to operate across the emirate, reflecting growing demand for smart mobility solutions.

Officials say the latest Tesla trials further strengthen Abu Dhabi’s readiness to implement future transport technologies aimed at creating safer, smarter, and more sustainable roads.