Autonomous driving technology company WeRide has announced its official expansion into Saudi Arabia.
The China-based company has begun deploying and testing its core autonomous driving products, including Robotaxis and Robobuses, in cities such as Riyadh and AlUla. These trials lay the groundwork for a wider commercial rollout, expected to take place across the Kingdom later this year.
READ MORE: Masdar City begins testing level 4 autonomous vehicles in smart mobility initiative
Initial operations are supported by Saudi Arabia’s Transport General Authority. Robotaxi trial services will soon be available via the Uber platform, with full-scale commercial availability anticipated by the end of 2025.
The initiative aligns with the country’s Vision 2030 goals to modernise infrastructure and develop smart, sustainable cities through advanced mobility solutions.
WeRide is also piloting its Robobus, a Level 4 autonomous vehicle, in several locations across the Kingdom.
Deployment sites include Aramco residential compounds, AlUla, and the Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh. Designed for last-mile transit, the Robobus integrates with existing infrastructure such as the Riyadh Metro, and is tailored for operation in high-temperature environments, serving destinations like parks, resorts, and medical campuses.
The company’s Robosweeper S1 has been also been launched in Riyadh.
WeRide’s expansion comes as Saudi Arabia continues to diversify its economy, with a GDP of US$1.09tn recorded in 2024.
The Kingdom’s tourism sector, projected to grow to US$110.1bn by 2033, is seen as a key driver for the adoption of smart mobility services.
The move into Saudi Arabia follows WeRide’s growing presence in the Middle East. Earlier in May, the company launched fully driverless Robotaxi testing in Abu Dhabi, the first such deployment in the region. Service coverage is set to extend to high-demand areas including Al Maryah and Al Reem Islands.
Innovative applications of cobots, manufacturing, AI in retail and e-commerce, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, automotive, transport & logistics, and more will be celebrated at the Robotics & Automation Awards on 29 October 2025 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Visit www.roboticsandautomationawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable event for the UK’s robotics and automation sectors!
