WeRide stock rises after launching autonomous Robotaxi service with Uber in Saudi Arabia

Investing.com -- WeRide (NASDAQ:WRD) stock rose 4% Friday morning after the autonomous driving technology company announced it has begun offering autonomous Robotaxi passenger rides in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia through Uber’s (NYSE:UBER) platform.

The initiative marks the first time autonomous vehicles are available on Uber in Saudi Arabia, with service now operating between Roshn Front and Princess Noura University. The program has received endorsement from Saudi Arabia’s Transport General Authority (TGA).

This launch represents a significant milestone in Uber’s partnership with the TGA and aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for smart mobility innovation. During the initial phase, each Robotaxi will include a vehicle operator before transitioning to fully driverless operations in the future.

"We’re excited to bring autonomous vehicles to riders in Saudi Arabia. This milestone, in partnership with the Transport General Authority and WeRide, marks an important next step in our progress across the Middle East as we continue expanding access to AVs while building safer and more sustainable transportation for all," said Sarfraz Maredia, Global Head of Autonomous Mobility & Delivery at Uber.

Jennifer Li, CFO and Head of International at WeRide, added: "We’re proud to partner with Uber to introduce autonomous mobility in Riyadh, marking another global milestone for WeRide and for the Kingdom’s journey toward smart and sustainable transport."

The Riyadh launch follows WeRide’s earlier deployment on the Uber platform in Abu Dhabi in late 2024. WeRide was previously granted Saudi Arabia’s first Robotaxi autonomous driving permit after completing the TGA’s Regulatory Sandbox for AV Piloting.

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