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Mercedes-Backed Momenta to Launch Robotaxis in Dubai in 2027

Mercedes-backed Momenta plans to launch robotaxis in Dubai in 2027, targeting several thousand vehicles globally as it expands across Europe, Japan and other international markets.

Written By : Poulami Saha
Reviewed By : Pranchal Srivastava

Chinese autonomous-driving company Momenta Global is preparing for a major international expansion, with Dubai emerging as one of its key robotaxi markets in 2027. The company plans to deploy autonomous vehicles in the UAE city as it scales operations across overseas markets.

Robotaxi fleet to reach thousands

Momenta currently has more than 100 robotaxis deployed across three countries. It is testing the vehicles in five Chinese cities, along with Munich and Abu Dhabi. The company expects its fleet to reach hundreds by the end of 2026 before expanding to several thousand by the end of 2027.

Shuo Xie, head of Momenta’s robotaxi business, said, “The company plans to deploy vehicles in Dubai next year. Momenta is also in discussions with several European cities and considers Japan a priority market for future expansion.”

Mercedes-Benz Partnership Supports Expansion

The Mercedes-Benz partnership has already extended into robotaxis. In December 2025, Mercedes-Benz, Momenta and mobility provider Lumo announced an SAE Level 4 robotaxi programme using the new S-Class. The initial deployment focuses on Abu Dhabi, with potential expansion to additional markets.

Mercedes-Benz has also outlined a broader robotaxi ecosystem built around its S-Class, with partnerships covering autonomous-driving projects in multiple regions.

The Roadmap Ahead 

Momenta’s Dubai plan comes as robotaxi companies expand beyond their home markets. The company is competing with established autonomous-driving players, including Alphabet’s Waymo and China’s Pony.ai.

The planned fleet increase will require Momenta to move beyond limited trials and develop the operational infrastructure needed for large-scale autonomous mobility. That includes vehicle management, charging, maintenance and remote support.

Momenta also raised about USD 751 million through its Hong Kong IPO in July 2026. Despite its expansion plans, the company remains unprofitable as it continues to invest heavily in research and development.

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