Robotaxi company Pony AI Inc. will partner with ride hailing giant Uber Technologies Inc. to launch in the Middle East this year, as the auto industry’s push into autonomous driving gathers pace.

Key Takeaways Uber and Pony AI announced a partnership Tuesday to bring Pony AI's robotaxis to Uber's platform.The companies expect to launch their partnership in the Middle East later this year.The collaboration is the latest of many for Uber as it aligns itself with autonomous vehicle makers.

Uber said on Tuesday it was partnering with Pony AI to deploy the China-based robotaxi developer's vehicles onto its ride-hailing platform, marking the latest in a series of tie-ups aimed at strengthening its presence in the fledgling robotaxi sector.