July 18, 2026 – Daily Balochistan Times

July 18, 2026

WeRide Named Among China’s Top 10 AI Case Studies for UAE Autonomous Driving Deployment, the Only Autonomous Driving Company Recognized

Officials release AI From China Benefits the World (2026) during the main forum of WAIC 2026 in Shanghai

SHANGHAI, July 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — WeRide (NASDAQ: WRD; HKEX: 0800), a global leader in autonomous driving technology, today announced that its autonomous driving deployment in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been selected as one of the Top 10 examples of international cooperation in Chinese AI technologies and products in AI From China Benefits the World (2026), in a national case collection released at the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC).

WeRide was the only autonomous driving company included on the list, with its UAE operations recognized as a benchmark for the international deployment of Chinese AI innovation. This underscores the growing global impact of autonomous mobility and demonstrates how Chinese autonomous driving technologies can be successfully deployed, regulated and commercialized in international markets.

The recognition was announced at the main forum of WAIC 2026, where China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) released AI From China Benefits the World (2026). Since 2024, the initiative has highlighted impactful AI cooperation projects that demonstrate how Chinese technologies deliver meaningful social and economic value globally.

Today, WeRide’s fully driverless Robotaxi services have become part of daily transportation in the UAE. The company operates commercial Robotaxi services in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with riders able to access the service through the Uber platform. WeRide is currently the only company outside the United States providing fully driverless Robotaxi services on Uber.

The company’s achievements in the UAE are the result of years of continuous deployment and collaboration with local stakeholders. WeRide began public Robotaxi operations in Abu Dhabi in 2021, becoming one of the first autonomous driving companies to establish services in the country and establishing a four-year first-mover advantage in the market.

Since then, the company has continued to achieve key regulatory and commercial milestones with its extensive operational track record and proven technology. In 2023, WeRide became the first company to receive the UAE’s national license for self-driving vehicles, authorizing autonomous vehicle testing and operation on public roads nationwide, subject to local approvals. In December 2024, WeRide and Uber launched the largest commercial Robotaxi service outside the United States and China in Abu Dhabi.

Operations continued to expand in October 2025, as WeRide expanded its Robotaxi services to Ras Al Khaimah, bringing its operations to a third emirate in the UAE. One month later, WeRide became the first company to launch fully driverless commercial Robotaxi services in Abu Dhabi, enabled by the world’s first city-level L4 autonomous driving commercial permit issued outside the United States.

Today, WeRide’s Robotaxi network covers approximately 70% of Abu Dhabi’s core urban areas, with operations spanning Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah.

WeRide’s progress in commercial deployment aligns closely with the UAE’s long-term transportation strategy. As Dubai works towards 25% of all transportation journeys to be autonomous by 2030, and Abu Dhabi advances plans to significantly increase the share of autonomous mobility in the coming decades, the regular operation of WeRide’s Robotaxi services provide practical support for the UAE in improving transportation efficiency and advancing its smart mobility transformation.

With its UAE deployment serving as a benchmark, WeRide has developed a comprehensive global operating model spanning technology adaptation, regulatory engagement and commercial operations, to enable the integration of autonomous driving into urban transportation systems across diverse markets. Beyond the UAE, WeRide has launched public Robotaxi services in Riyadh and Singapore, while expanding into additional international markets including Madrid and Zurich, further strengthening its global presence across multiple regions, vehicle platforms and deployment scenarios.

Today, WeRide’s autonomous driving products have a presence in more than 40 cities across 12 countries. The company holds autonomous driving permits in eight countries and operates a global Level 4 autonomous driving fleet of over 3,000 vehicles.

From the UAE to an expanding number of markets globally, WeRide continues to demonstrate how autonomous driving can be safely deployed, commercially operated and integrated into urban transportation systems worldwide. The company remains committed to advancing the global adoption of autonomous mobility and creating long-term value for cities, passengers and industry partners.

About WeRide

WeRide is a global leader and a first mover in the autonomous driving industry, as well as the first publicly traded Robotaxi company. Our autonomous vehicles have been tested or operated in over 40 cities across 12 countries. We are also the first and only technology company whose products have received autonomous driving permits in eight markets: China, the UAE, Singapore, France, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, Belgium, and the US. Empowered by the smart, versatile, cost-effective, and highly adaptable WeRide One platform, WeRide provides autonomous driving products and services from L2 to L4, addressing transportation needs in the mobility, logistics, and sanitation industries. WeRide was named to Fortune’s 2025 Change the World and 2025 Future 50 lists.

Media Contacts

[email protected]

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains statements that may constitute “forward-looking” statements pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “aims,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “likely to,” and similar statements. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about WeRide’s beliefs, plans, and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in WeRide’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and announcements on the website of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release. WeRide does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/11d8420c-0599-4295-bf75-96ec4b0be058

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July 18, 2026

KAIYI X7 Hybrid and X7 AWD Launch in the UAE as Brand Expands Its Global Footprint

KAIYI X7 Hybrid and X7 AWD UAE Launch Event

On June 27, Legend Group, Kaiyi’s local distributor, launched KAIYI X7 Hybrid and X7 AWD in Dubai, UAE， bringing its plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) offerings to local customers.

YIBIN, China, July 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — On June 27, Legend Group, Kaiyi’s local distributor, launched KAIYI X7 Hybrid and X7 AWD in Dubai, UAE, bringing its plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) offerings to local customers. Through vehicle displays, product experiences and performances, the event showcased KAIYI’s progress in new energy mobility and intelligent AWD technology.

The two models expand local choices for family travel, daily commuting and long-distance journeys.

Two Models Launch in a Product Experience

KAIYI unveiled both models with a technology-led stage presentation and visual effects. Guests explored the vehicles up close, gaining a clearer view of the brand’s product strengths, design and new energy capabilities.

KAIYI X7 Hybrid and X7 AWD UAE Launch Event

Guests explored the vehicles up close, gaining a clearer view of the brand’s product strengths, design and new energy capabilities. A KAIYI spokesperson said, “Middle Eastern customers value comfort, reliability, space and performance in high temperatures. This launch deepens our understanding of local mobility needs across family travel, city commuting and longer journeys. We will continue to refine our products around regional needs and offer customers practical, comfortable, and mobility choices.”

Designed for Families and Well Suited to Middle East Driving Needs

The UAE’s year-round heat, family-oriented lifestyle and varied road conditions create demand for spacious, capable SUVs. Developed to global standards and calibrated for the UAE, the X7 Hybrid and X7 AWD are designed to meet these needs.

The X7 Hybrid features an intelligent hybrid system, a combined driving range of more than 1,200 km and 0–100 km/h acceleration in 7.9 seconds. It balances responsive performance with practicality. Its 5+2 seating layout supports family outings, intercity travel and daily commutes, making it suitable for larger households.

The X7 AWD is built for conditions ranging from city roads and high temperatures to unpaved surfaces. Its intelligent AWD system dynamically distributes torque to enhance stability and control, giving drivers confidence across different terrains.

Advancing KAIYI Auto’s Global Strategy in the Middle East

KAIYI continues to combine global product development with localized operations. Working with local partners, the brand is expanding sales channels, strengthening service capabilities and improving the ownership experience to support long-term growth in the Middle East.

Media Contact:
Wang Hanlu, Senior Brand Manager
Email: [email protected]

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7a4dcf7f-343c-49df-9f21-02f15d670433

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9764150

July 18, 2026

KPEZDMC allocates land for establishment of police station in Hattar

Peshawar: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Economic Zones Development and Management Company (KPEZDMC) has transferred 4 kanals of land for the establishment of Police Station Hattar and the Police Sahulat Centre Hattar, in Hattar Economic Zone.

During a visit to the Hattar Economic Zone, DPO Haripur Shafiullah Gandapur appreciated KPEZDMC and Hattar Industrialists Association for their support in making this important initiative possible.

The Police Sahulat Centre will provide key services under one roof, including police clearance and character certificates, tenant and employee registration, complaint registration, a Foreigners Desk, and dedicated emergency support for industries and foreign investors.

This important milestone was made possible through the dedicated efforts and close coordination of Mr. Safeer Akhtar Awan, Member, Board of Directors, KPEZDMC, the Board of Directors of KPEZDMC, the Hattar Industrialists Association (HIA).

July 18, 2026

GIMS cardiology department continues to provide advanced cardiac care

Sukkur: The Cardiology Department at the Gambat Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS) continues to provide advanced and life-saving cardiac interventions to patients from across Sindh and other parts of the country.

The department, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, is routinely performing a comprehensive range of interventional procedures, including coronary angiography, coronary angioplasty (PCI), primary PCI for acute myocardial infarction and Percutaneous Transvenous Mitral Commissurotomy (PTMC).

Hospital’s Spokesperson Jamal Hyder said on Friday the Cardiology Department has emerged as a major referral centre for cardiac patients, particularly from northern Sindh and adjoining areas, owing to its round-the-clock emergency cover and experienced team of specialists.

According to Consultant Cardiologist at GIMS, Dr. Syed Ghulam Jaffar Shah said the department is committed to providing timely and affordable cardiac care under one roof.

Our primary focus is to ensure that no patient suffering from a heart attack is deprived of timely intervention. We are performing primary PCI on a routine basis, which is the gold standard treatment for acute heart attacks and significantly reduces mortality, Dr. Shah said.

He said that in addition to coronary interventions, the team is also performing PTMC procedures for patients suffering from rheumatic mitral stenosis, a condition still prevalent in the region.

With the support of modern cath lab facilities and a dedicated team of fellows, residents, nurses and technologists, we are trying to provide patient centered care at par with any major cardiac centre in the country, he added.

Dr Shah appreciated the dedication of the entire cardiology team whose teamwork and commitment, he said, had made it possible to restore hearts and bring hope to countless families every day.

July 18, 2026

Health Minister reviews healthcare services in Kohat

Peshawar: Health Minister, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Khaliq ur Rahman on Friday visited Kohat, where an important meeting on the Kohat Divisional Hospital was held at the Commissioner House.

The meeting was chaired by Health Minister Khaliq ur Rahman. Provincial Information Minister Shafi Jan, DEDAC Chairman and Member of the Provincial Assembly Dawood Shah Afridi, Kohat Commissioner Moatasim Billah, Deputy Commissioner Kohat Muhammad Nawaz, divisional and district health officials, the Medical Superintendent (MS), and the concerned District Health Officers (DHOs) also attended.

During the meeting, officials of the divisional health department, the Medical Superintendent, and the District Health Officers (DHOs) gave the Health Minister a detailed briefing on healthcare facilities across Kohat Division, the performance of Kohat Divisional Hospital, the challenges being faced, and the progress of ongoing development projects.

The meeting also discussed measures to further modernize and improve healthcare services, enhance the hospital’s available resources, strengthen the capacity of medical staff, and ensure the provision of timely, quality, and efficient medical treatment to the public.

July 18, 2026

AJK EC announces polling for election staff on July 20

Mirpur (ajk): The Election Commission of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Friday announced to hold a special polling process exclusively for government employees assigned election duties in connection with the General Elections 2026.

The AJK Election Commission sources told reporter Friday evening that polling for election staff will be conducted on July 20, 2026 (Monday) to facilitate officials who will be performing election-related duties on the day of the general elections and may otherwise be unable to cast their votes.

The polling stations will be established at the respective district headquarters across AJK, where officials deployed on election duty will be able to exercise their right to vote, reported sources.

The Election Commission has directed all District Returning Officers (DROs), Returning Officers (ROs), district administrations, and other relevant institutions to make comprehensive arrangements for the transparent, orderly, and timely conduct of the employees’ polling process.

The Commission emphasized that all necessary measures should be completed in advance to ensure that election personnel can cast their votes without any inconvenience.

Election officials assigned polling duties have been instructed to report to the designated polling centres on the specified date and time and to strictly comply with all instructions issued by the Election Commission regarding the voting process, the sources added.