Global mobility platform inDrive and AI Driver, a Saudi autonomous-mobility firm, have partnered to deploy autonomous vehicles (AVs) in Saudi Arabia. This collaboration, supervised by the Transport General Authority (TGA), will bring AVs to inDrive’s platform.
The deal marks a significant milestone in introducing autonomous ride-hailing in the Kingdom, beginning with a pilot in Riyadh and later expanding to Jeddah. This initiative aims to merge cutting-edge autonomous driving technology with the convenience of ride-hailing, potentially transforming residents’ everyday mobility.
What the Partnership Entails
The agreement focuses on deploying AVs powered by WeRide’s AI-driving technology. WeRide is a global leader in autonomous driving, and AI Driver is its national official dealer in Saudi Arabia. The collaboration includes several key components: vehicle deployment, safety officer training, and integration of data and technology between the two companies.
After signing, the manufacturing, shipment, and customs clearance processes will begin. The service is expected to launch in the first half of 2026.
Driving Forward Saudi Vision 2030
This project supports Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to advance smart mobility, enhance transportation infrastructure, and promote sustainable, tech-driven solutions. By introducing autonomous ride-hailing, inDrive and AI Driver aim to provide safer, smarter, and more accessible mobility options.
Yuri Misnik, CTO of inDrive, explained: “By combining AI Driver’s local operations with inDrive’s global platform and local expertise, we aim to offer safer, smarter, and more accessible mobility to communities in Saudi Arabia.”
Louis Chu, VP of AI Driver, emphasized the partnership’s importance: “It will pioneer autonomous mobility in the Kingdom and support Vision 2030’s goals for technology and sustainability.”
What Comes Next
The TGA will regulate the pilot to ensure full compliance with safety and regulatory standards. The collaboration will also help build local capacity and expertise in autonomous mobility.
If successful, the service could expand beyond Riyadh to Jeddah, paving the way for scalable autonomous transport across Saudi Arabia. For citizens and residents, this means a future where ride-hailing includes both human drivers and autonomous vehicles. These vehicles will be safer, cleaner, and more efficient.
Stay tuned on Arabwheels for more updates as this exciting journey unfolds.
