RIYADH. Saudi Arabia took a major step toward a smarter, safer transportation future with the launch of the Initial Operational Phase of Autonomous Vehicles in Riyadh. Led by Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of the Transport General Authority, Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser, this initiative aligns with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy and Saudi Vision 2030’s push for sustainable, AI-powered mobility solutions.
The self-driving vehicles will operate in a real-world environment, covering key locations like King Khalid International Airport, major highways, and select city center destinations in Riyadh. The Transport General Authority oversees the project, ensuring regulatory and technical compliance. Each vehicle includes a safety officer onboard to monitor performance and ensure passenger safety during this phase.
Pioneering Smart Transportation
The autonomous vehicle project is a collaborative effort involving key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA), the General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information, and the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO). Private sector partners, such as Uber, WeRide, and AiDriver, are also driving the initiative’s success, showcasing a strong public-private partnership.
Boosting Innovation and Sustainability
Eng. Al-Jasser emphasized that this launch reflects Saudi Arabia’s vision to build an integrated, smart transport system that drives economic growth and enhances quality of life. “Enabling modern technologies and developing robust regulatory frameworks are critical to expanding autonomous vehicle implementation and transforming the transport sector,” he said.
The initiative supports sustainability, improves mobility efficiency, and promotes localized innovation. By leveraging cutting-edge AI technology, Saudi Arabia is paving the way for safer, smarter transportation, setting a global benchmark for autonomous vehicle adoption.
This project marks a milestone in Saudi Arabia’s journey toward becoming a leader in smart mobility. The collaboration between government bodies and private sector innovators highlights the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering a future-ready transport ecosystem that prioritizes safety, efficiency, and sustainability.