Neolix has temporarily suspended driverless delivery vehicle operations in Abu Dhabi, citing compliance with UAE government requirements and concern for staff safety, Chinese outlet Yicai reported. The pause follows a recent wave of missile strikes launched by Iran at Israel, which has heightened regional tensions. Other Chinese autonomous-driving firms, including WeRide and Pony.ai, have similarly scaled back services or testing in Gulf cities. Neolix says it will stay in touch with regulators and resume services when conditions allow.
Neolix Pauses Driverless Delivery Runs In Abu Dhabi Amid Regional Escalation
FILE PHOTO: A visitor takes a picture of a Neolix self-driving vehicle at the IEEV New Energy Vehicles Exhibition in Beijing, China October 18, 2018. Picture taken October 18, 2018. REUTERS/Thomas Peter/ File Photo
Chinese autonomous delivery vehicle maker Neolix has paused its daily driverless vehicle operations in Abu Dhabi, Chinese business outlet Yicai reported on Thursday. The move follows heightened regional tensions after Iran launched a wave of missiles at Israel, a development that has unsettled transport and business hubs across the Middle East.
According to the report, Neolix said the suspension was taken to comply with requirements from relevant UAE government departments and to ensure the safety of staff and company assets. The company plans to maintain communication with local regulators and partners and to resume operations when conditions permit.
Neolix did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Other Firms Adjust Operations
Several other Chinese autonomous-driving companies have also scaled back activity in the Gulf amid the unrest. WeRide suspended its robotaxi fleet in Dubai, while Pony.ai temporarily paused on-road testing in Doha and Dubai before restarting tests in Doha on Monday. Industry sources say firms are closely monitoring developments and coordinating with local authorities.
Context: The reported suspensions come as regional conflict prompted precautionary measures across transportation and logistics networks. Companies operating autonomous systems are prioritizing regulatory compliance and personnel safety until the situation stabilizes.
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