Saudi Arabia Partners with Uber to Launch Autonomous Vehicle Services by Year-End

Saudi Arabia is taking a major step toward smart mobility with a new agreement between the Transport General Authority (TGA) and Uber Technologies to launch autonomous vehicles in the Kingdom. The partnership, announced during the Saudi-US Investment Forum in Riyadh, is part of a broader push to integrate cutting-edge technology into the country’s transportation infrastructure under Vision 2030.

The memorandum of understanding was signed by TGA Acting President Dr. Rumaih bin Mohammed Al Rumaih and Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi. The signing took place under the patronage of Saleh Al Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of the TGA, and was attended by senior government representatives from both nations.

According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the initiative aims to introduce self-driving vehicles through Uber’s platform before the end of 2025. The first phase will involve autonomous vehicles operating with safety drivers onboard, ensuring close oversight and public confidence during the initial rollout.

“This partnership marks a significant milestone in our journey toward intelligent transportation systems,” said Dr. Al Rumaih. “Through collaboration with Uber, we are creating an environment that encourages innovation while maintaining the highest safety standards.”

The agreement supports the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which seeks to modernize the Kingdom’s mobility landscape and reduce dependence on traditional vehicles. It also aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes digital transformation, sustainable infrastructure, and diversification of the economy.

Uber and the TGA plan to work with leading autonomous vehicle technology providers to integrate these advanced systems into Saudi Arabia’s existing rideshare network. The long-term goal is to offer residents and visitors seamless, technology-driven mobility solutions that improve efficiency, safety, and accessibility.

Dara Khosrowshahi welcomed the agreement, emphasizing Uber’s commitment to advancing smart transportation globally. “We’re proud to support Saudi Arabia’s ambitious mobility goals,” he said, “and look forward to helping bring autonomous rides to more people across the Kingdom.”

Both parties underscored that safety would remain a top priority throughout the pilot and expansion phases. The partnership includes the development of a comprehensive regulatory framework to guide autonomous vehicle operations, with a focus on ensuring passenger security and building public trust.

As Saudi Arabia positions itself as a regional leader in transportation innovation, the TGA-Uber collaboration could serve as a model for integrating emerging technologies into national infrastructure.