Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi announced on Tuesday that the company plans to launch self-driving vehicles in Saudi Arabia this year. He indicated that Uber is in discussions with partners in the autonomous driving sector and several ministries in the Kingdom to bring this technology to the local market.

During a panel discussion at the Saudi-US Investment Forum in Riyadh, Khosrowshahi highlighted Saudi Arabia as one of Uber’s fastest-growing markets, noting that the company has over 140 000 Saudi drivers and more than 4 million active riders. Currently, Uber operates in 20 cities across the Kingdom, where it has seen growth exceeding 70 percent, a trend he expects to continue due to the country’s rapid urban development.

Khosrowshahi also commented on the Riyadh Metro project, calling it “incredible and impressive.” He revealed that Uber is offering discounted fares for first- and last-mile connections to the metro system. He emphasized the need for integrating Uber with public transport to reduce car parking needs and optimize urban space usage.

On the topic of the future of mobility, Khosrowshahi pointed out the transformative potential of autonomous vehicles, stating that they are a safer alternative to human drivers. He explained that these vehicles are capable of continuous learning through data and experience. He predicts that autonomous driving technology will revolutionize passenger transport, delivery, and commercial logistics, resulting in lower costs and increased accessibility.

Uber is currently collaborating with 18 autonomous vehicle partners worldwide. The company’s goal is to serve as a platform that integrates seamlessly with urban environments and regulatory bodies to introduce this technology in a safe and structured manner.