WeRide, an autonomous driving technology company, has partnered with Uber Technologies to offer autonomous Robotaxi passenger rides in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

This collaboration marks the first time that autonomous vehicles are available on the Uber platform in the region.

The service began with the option for Uber riders to choose a WeRide Robotaxi GXR for their trips between Roshn Front and Princess Noura University.

Jennifer Li, CFO and head of international at WeRide, said: "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."

During the initial phase of the launch, a vehicle operator will be present in each Robotaxi to ensure a "safer and more reliable experience" for both riders and pedestrians.

The plan is to transition to fully driverless operations in the future.

This initiative is a significant step in Uber's ongoing partnership with the Transport General Authority (TGA) of Saudi Arabia.

The launch follows the Initial Operational Phase of Autonomous Vehicles, which was inaugurated by the Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and chairman of the Board of the TGA, Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, in July.

Prior to this, WeRide received Saudi Arabia's first Robotaxi autonomous driving permit and became the first AV technology company to complete the TGA's Regulatory Sandbox for AV Piloting in Saudi Arabia.

The introduction of WeRide's Robotaxi service in Riyadh comes after the public launch of the service on the Uber platform in Abu Dhabi at the end of 2024.

Sarfraz Maredia, global head of autonomous mobility & delivery at Uber, said: "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."