Uber Technologies Inc. Launches Autonomous Robotaxi Rides in Saudi Arabia

This initiative is more than just a technological advancement; it aligns perfectly with the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to foster innovation in smart, sustainable mobility. The launch represents a critical step in Uber’s partnership with the Transport General Authority (TGA), targeting the enhancement of urban mobility solutions in the region.

Uber riders in Riyadh can now experience the WeRide Robotaxi GXR, which is available for trips between Roshn Front and Princess Noura University. This offering is poised to provide passengers with a first-hand experience of driverless mobility, a significant shift in how transportation is perceived and utilized in urban settings.

Sarfraz Maredia, the Global Head of Autonomous Mobility & Delivery at Uber, expressed enthusiasm about the launch, stating, “We’re excited to bring autonomous vehicles to riders in Saudi Arabia. This milestone, in partnership with the Transport General Authority and WeRide, marks an important next step in our progress across the Middle East as we continue expanding access to AVs while building safer and more sustainable transportation for all.”

Jennifer Li, CFO and Head of International at WeRide, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the significance of this partnership. “We’re proud to partner with Uber to introduce autonomous mobility in Riyadh, marking another global milestone for WeRide and for the Kingdom’s journey toward smart and sustainable transport. Through our world-class autonomous driving technology, we aim to enhance everyday mobility and help shape the future of safer, greener, and more efficient cities across Saudi Arabia and beyond.”

To ensure rider safety and reliability during the initial phase, each Robotaxi will be equipped with a vehicle operator. This step is crucial as the companies transition towards fully driverless operations in the future. The presence of a human operator aims to provide a more secure experience for both riders and pedestrians, aligning with regulatory expectations and public safety standards.

This launch follows a series of significant regulatory milestones, including the Initial Operational Phase of Autonomous Vehicles inaugurated by Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of the Board of the Transport General Authority, in July 2025. Notably, WeRide was the first AV technology company to receive Saudi Arabia's Robotaxi autonomous driving permit, having successfully completed the TGA's Regulatory Sandbox for AV Piloting.

The deployment in Riyadh comes on the heels of WeRide’s public launch on the Uber platform in Abu Dhabi at the end of 2024, showcasing the rapid expansion of autonomous driving technology across the Middle East.

WeRide is recognized globally as a pioneering force in the autonomous driving sector, having tested or operated its vehicles in over 30 cities across 11 countries. The company has gained permits for autonomous vehicle operations in seven markets, including Saudi Arabia. WeRide's innovative platform, WeRide One, caters to diverse transportation needs across various industries.

Uber, founded in 2010, has evolved from a ride-hailing service to a comprehensive mobility platform, facilitating over 64 billion trips globally. The company remains committed to creating opportunities through movement, continually expanding its product offerings to enhance urban mobility.

As Uber and WeRide embark on this transformative journey in Saudi Arabia, the implications for urban mobility, sustainability, and technological innovation are profound. The successful integration of autonomous vehicles into everyday life could set a precedent for future advancements in transportation globally.