• Uber confirms autonomous vehicle (AV) deployment in Saudi Arabia by year-end, marking a key milestone in its Middle East expansion.
  • Partnerships with AV tech firms WeRide and Pony AI accelerate rollout, building on successful UAE pilot programs.
  • Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative and regulatory support position the country as a strategic AV market.

Uber’s Autonomous Push Gains Momentum

Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi announced plans to introduce autonomous vehicles in Saudi Arabia before the end of 2025, signaling a major step in the company’s global AV strategy. The move follows successful deployments in Abu Dhabi, where Uber has partnered with Chinese AV leaders WeRide and Pony AI to scale its fleet.

“You will see autonomous vehicles in Saudi Arabia this year,” Khosrowshahi said, underscoring the region’s importance in Uber’s long-term mobility vision. The company aims to expand AV services to 15 cities globally by 2030, with Saudi Arabia serving as a critical testbed for regulatory and operational scalability.

Strategic Partnerships and Local Impact

The Saudi rollout leverages existing collaborations with AV specialists, avoiding the pitfalls of Uber’s abandoned in-house unit. Analysts note that the Middle East’s pro-innovation policies—such as Dubai’s 25% autonomous transport target by 2030—create a favorable environment. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which prioritizes economic diversification, has fast-tracked infrastructure and regulatory approvals for AV trials.

However, challenges remain. Early deployments will likely include safety drivers, and local chauffeurs fear job displacement. “We’re committed to working with regulators and communities to ensure a smooth transition,” an Uber spokesperson said, though driver unions have yet to be formally consulted.

Competitive Landscape

Uber’s asset-light partnership model contrasts with rivals like Waymo and Cruise, which focus on proprietary technology. By aligning with Chinese AV firms, Uber gains cost advantages and faster market entry—but geopolitical tensions could complicate long-term operations. Meanwhile, Saudi investors are reportedly in talks to back additional AV ventures, signaling broader regional ambition beyond Uber’s efforts.

Correction: An earlier version misstated the timeline for Uber’s global AV expansion. The company targets 15 cities by 2030, not 2025.