Uber Technologies and Chinese autonomous vehicle developer WeRide have launched Saudi Arabia’s first autonomous Robotaxi passenger service in Riyadh, marking a milestone in the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy and Uber’s expansion in autonomous mobility across the Middle East.
The pilot service allows Uber users to book rides in WeRide’s Robotaxi GXR vehicles for trips between Roshn Front and Princess Noura University. The initiative is part of the Kingdom’s broader efforts to advance smart and sustainable transportation systems.
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Supported by Saudi Arabia’s Transport General Authority (TGA), the project follows the launch of the country’s Initial Operational Phase for Autonomous Vehicles, inaugurated in July 2025 by Transport Minister Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser. WeRide previously became the first autonomous technology company to complete the TGA’s Regulatory Sandbox and secure an official Robotaxi driving permit in the Kingdom.
For Uber, the rollout represents a step forward in integrating autonomous technologies into its global platform. The company said the collaboration aims to enhance transportation safety and efficiency while supporting Saudi Arabia’s vision to become a regional hub for advanced mobility innovation.
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“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 expand access to AVs while building safer and more sustainable transportation for all,” said Sarfraz Maredia, Uber’s Global Head of Autonomous Mobility & Delivery.
Jennifer Li, WeRide’s Chief Financial Officer and Head of International, said the launch “marks another global milestone for WeRide and for the Kingdom’s journey toward smart and sustainable transport.”
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WeRide currently operates autonomous vehicles in more than 30 cities across 11 countries and holds driving permits in seven markets, including China, the UAE, Singapore, France, Saudi Arabia, Belgium, and the United States. Its WeRide One platform enables scalable Level 2 to Level 4 autonomy for applications in mobility, logistics, and public service.