Riyadh is preparing for a significant leap forward in transport innovation, with self-driving taxis set to appear on city roads in the near future. The announcement was made by Dr. Omaimah Bamasag, Deputy of Transport Enablement at the Transport General Authority (TGA), as part of the Kingdom’s broader plan to create a smarter, more sustainable transport network.
This move won’t be limited to Riyadh. Five other Saudi cities are also expected to join the rollout of autonomous vehicles, which will include not only taxis, but also self-driving trucks, passenger vehicles, and drones.
The initiative is being driven by the Future Mobility Committee, chaired by the Deputy Minister of Transport and supported by specialists from various government entities. The committee is currently overseeing 120 mobility-focused projects, with 16 specifically aimed at enhancing smart transport through artificial intelligence.
Dr. Bamasag described the plan as a “qualitative step” towards the future of transportation in Saudi Arabia, noting that it involves the development of both physical and digital infrastructure to support the safe and effective use of autonomous technologies.
Alongside the push for self-driving vehicles, the TGA has been expanding public transport services across the country. Recent additions include electric buses now operating in Jeddah and Tabuk, further underscoring the Kingdom’s commitment to clean and connected mobility.
While no specific launch date has been confirmed for the self-driving taxis in Riyadh, the groundwork is well underway. With strong government support and an expanding smart mobility roadmap, the arrival of autonomous taxis is looking increasingly imminent.
