Riyadh launches driverless taxis in landmark mobility shift

Saudi Arabia has entered a new era of smart mobility with the launch of the Initial Operational Phase of Autonomous Vehicles in the capital.

Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of the Board of the Transport General Authority, Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser, launched the programme, describing it as a milestone designed to enable advanced technology and expand the development of a smart and safe transportation ecosystem across the Kingdom. The initiative aligns with the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, and extends Saudi Vision 2030’s commitment to sustainable mobility solutions powered by the latest artificial intelligence technologies.

A 12-month pilot across the capital

The pilot phase will run for 12 months and covers seven key zones of Riyadh, including King Khalid International Airport (Terminals 2 and 5), Roshn Front, Princess Nourah University, the North Train Station, and the headquarters of the Transport Authority.

The vehicles operate at Level-4 autonomy — capable of self-driving under normal conditions within mapped areas — and are supervised by onboard safety officers during the trial. They are equipped with advanced navigation and AI-based traffic sensing to adapt to real-world conditions.

WeRide, Uber and AiDriver leading the rollout

At the centre of the programme is WeRide, the first company to receive a Robotaxi permit in Saudi Arabia. Working with Uber and AiDriver, WeRide has introduced autonomous taxis that can already be booked through the Uber app within designated zones. Thirteen pick-up and drop-off points are active, including airport terminals, university campuses and business districts.

For now, the service is limited in scope, but by the end of 2025 the companies expect to move into full commercial operations, scaling the service across Riyadh. WeRide is also testing autonomous buses and service vehicles, pointing to a broader integration of AI-driven mobility into the city’s transport landscape.

How visitors can use the service

Tourists and residents can access the driverless taxis directly via the Uber platform, offering a seamless extension of a familiar global app. On arrival at King Khalid International Airport, passengers can book a robotaxi to hotels, business centres or cultural landmarks, bypassing the need for private cars or traditional taxis.

This integration is a breakthrough for tourism. Visitors benefit from predictable pricing, reliable routing and a uniquely futuristic experience — positioning Riyadh as one of the first global cities where international travellers can hail a driverless car at the airport.

Smart mobility and tourism

The programme demonstrates how Riyadh is reimagining mobility as part of its wider strategy to become a global destination for business and leisure. By combining AI technology, international partnerships and a clear regulatory framework, the city is building confidence in autonomous transport while adding to its appeal for visitors.

With Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, autonomous taxis will play a crucial role in moving large numbers of guests across the city efficiently. More broadly, the project supports the Kingdom’s goal of making 15% of public transport autonomous by 2030, reinforcing its credentials as a hub of innovation and sustainable travel.

Emerging mobility ecosystem

Here’s how the pieces are falling into place:

Looking forward

The success of Riyadh’s robotaxi initiative rests on execution and public trust. Regulatory frameworks, safety validation, and user acceptance all need to scale beyond pilot zones. But with a clear path to 15% autonomous transport by 2030, Riyadh is setting a blueprint for smart mobility in the Middle East.