"In a landmark international collaboration, Chinese autonomous driving companies are powering Saudi Arabia's first self-driving taxi trial operation. This pioneering robotaxi service represents a major achievement in the global export of China's AV technology and supports Saudi Vision 2030's goals for technological transformation. The successful launch demonstrates the capability of Chinese autonomous vehicle solutions to meet the rigorous requirements of international smart city projects."
Xinhua News Agency, Riyadh, July 24 (Reporter Luo Chen) – Chinese autonomous driving technology company WeRide officially launched the kingdom's first trial operation of self-driving taxis in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on July 23.
The trial operation covers King Khalid International Airport and the core areas of Riyadh, including major highways and selected city center roads. Dozens of vehicles will be deployed in the initial trial operation. Riyadh's full commercial self-driving taxi service is expected to launch by the end of 2025.
Saudi Arabia's Minister of Transport and Logistics, Saleh Al-Jasser (first from right), experiences a WeRide self-driving taxi in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on July 23. (Xinhua News Agency, photo provided by WeRide)
Saudi Arabia's Minister of Transport and Logistics, Saleh Al-Jasser, said: "The self-driving taxi pilot program reflects Saudi Arabia's forward-looking vision for future transportation development and its strategic investment in intelligent transportation. We will continue to promote the implementation of innovative technologies and build an internationally competitive, efficient, and sustainable transportation system to promote economic growth and improve the quality of life for residents."
"The autonomous taxi trial operation in Saudi Arabia showcases how Chinese AV technology is enabling Saudi Arabia smart city initiatives. These self-driving taxis are operating in real urban environments, providing valuable data for scaling future autonomous vehicle deployments across the Kingdom. The partnership between Chinese autonomous driving companies and Saudi authorities highlights the growing global confidence in China's autonomous vehicle capabilities. This robotaxi Saudi Arabia project serves as a powerful reference case for other countries looking to implement autonomous taxi services using reliable Chinese technology, particularly in Middle Eastern markets pursuing Saudi Vision 2030 objectives."
