Saudi Arabia Set to Launch Self-Driving Vehicles in Partnership with Uber
Saudi Arabia is moving swiftly toward the future of transportation, with plans underway to introduce Self-Driving Vehicles across the country by the end of this year. According to an announcement by the official news agency, the Saudi Transport General Authority has signed a major agreement with Uber Technologies to bring autonomous vehicle services to the Kingdom. The partnership marks a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s commitment to embracing smart mobility solutions in line with Vision 2030.
The rollout will begin through the Uber app, allowing users to book Self-Driving Vehicles directly from their smartphones. This strategic move aims to make autonomous technology accessible to a broad range of customers from day one. The project, which is the first of its kind in the region, also incorporates safety features to ensure a secure travel experience. Trained operators will be present in the vehicles to monitor performance, assist passengers if needed, and respond immediately to any technical or emergency issues that may arise.
The official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) took place during the Saudi-American Investment Forum held in Riyadh. Dr. Rumaih Al-Rumaih, Acting President of the Saudi Transport General Authority, and Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber, were present to formalize the agreement. Both leaders expressed their optimism about the potential impact of this collaboration on the transportation sector.
A Bold Step Towards Smart Mobility
This initiative is not only about introducing cutting-edge technology but also about reshaping the future of mobility in Saudi Arabia. By deploying Self-Driving Vehicles, the Transport General Authority aims to reduce traffic accidents, improve operational efficiency, and offer environmentally friendly solutions. The use of the Uber platform is a strategic choice, leveraging its vast user base and advanced mobility infrastructure to support rapid adoption and scalability.
In response to public concerns, both Uber and the Transport Authority have emphasized that safety is their top priority. The vehicles will undergo rigorous testing and monitoring, and all operators will receive specialized training. Additionally, feedback mechanisms will be in place to ensure continuous improvement based on passenger experience.
With the launch expected by year-end, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself at the forefront of the autonomous vehicle revolution, setting a benchmark for other nations in the region and beyond.
