WeRide (Nasdaq: WRD), a global leader in autonomous driving technology, has announced its expansion into Saudi Arabia. This move is part of the company’s strategy for global growth, as it launches testing and deployment of its Robotaxis and other autonomous driving products in cities like Riyadh and AlUla. This initiative sets the foundation for a commercial rollout and broader operations across Saudi Arabia.

The company has begun preparations for the upcoming Robotaxi trial operations, supported by the Transport General Authority. The service is expected to launch on Uber in the coming months, with full commercial operations anticipated by late 2025. This deployment aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals, which aim to create smart, sustainable cities by improving road safety, traffic management, and mobility solutions.

In addition to Robotaxis, WeRide has been testing and deploying its Robobus across key areas in Saudi Arabia, including King Fahad Medical City and Aramco residential communities. This Level-4 autonomous vehicle addresses last-mile transportation needs and complements existing transit networks such as Riyadh Metro. It is designed for the region’s hot climate and can serve various locations, from parks to major tourist attractions.

Saudi Arabia, the largest economy in the Middle East with a GDP of US$1.09 trillion in 2024, is actively working to diversify into high-growth sectors under Vision 2030. The tourism sector alone is projected to reach US$110.1 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 8.4% from 2024. WeRide’s Robotaxis and Robobuses support the Kingdom’s efforts to establish a smart, sustainable transportation infrastructure for residents and the increasing number of visitors.

In Riyadh, WeRide has deployed the Robosweeper S1 at King Fahad Medical City, marking the first monetized autonomous sanitation project in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. This medical complex, the largest in the region, spans 500 000 square meters and includes four hospitals along with 107 primary care centers, which experience significant daily foot and vehicle traffic. The complex layout necessitates advanced sanitation solutions, where the Level-4 Robosweeper is particularly effective.

WeRide’s expansion in Saudi Arabia builds on its growing footprint across the Middle East. Earlier this month, it launched fully driverless Robotaxi testing in Abu Dhabi, which is the first deployment of its kind in the region. The company also plans to extend its Robotaxi service to Al Maryah and Al Reem Islands in Abu Dhabi, both of which are high-demand areas.

Additionally, in May, WeRide and Uber announced the expansion of their strategic partnership, which will see Robotaxis introduced to 15 new cities globally over the next five years. This includes new locations in Europe, while also exploring opportunities in the Middle East. This follows a successful Robotaxi launch in Abu Dhabi, which featured the largest public commercial Robotaxi fleet deployed outside the US and China in December 2024. The partnership has also expanded to Dubai, where WeRide’s Robotaxis will soon be available on Uber’s platform.

WeRide is recognized as a pioneer in the autonomous driving sector and is the first publicly traded Robotaxi company. The company has operated its vehicles in over 30 cities across 10 countries and is the only technology firm to hold autonomous driving permits in five markets: China, the UAE, Singapore, France, and the US. Leveraging the versatile WeRide One platform, the company offers a range of autonomous driving products and services from Level 2 to Level 4, catering to mobility, logistics, and sanitation needs. WeRide was also featured in Fortune Magazine’s 2024 “The Future 50” list.