Uber to create 30,000 jobs in Saudi Arabia in self-driving push

US ride-hailing firm signs deal with leading Saudi business group

Last updated: May 26, 2025 | 12:07

Manoj Nair, Business Editor

1 MIN READ

Uber is intent on expanding reach through its autonomous driving ambitions. Now, through a new deal, it is taking the ride to Saudi Arabia.

Supplied

Dubai: Uber is expanding its coverage in Saudi Arabia through a next-generation fleet operations platform. This will come by way of a new deal struck by Uber Technologies and Saudi Arabia's Abdul Latif Jameel.

The alliance will work on an ‘electric, shared, and autonomous future’. Uber is already working with 18 autonomous vehicle partners globally.

Our job listings in the UAE

In the Kingdom, the two will build a 'scalable' mobility fleet and aim to create 30,000 jobs for Saudi nationals.

Also Read: Abu Dhabi's getting another self-driving ride-hailing service, with Autogo

“Saudi Arabia is primed to be a key destination for urban transformation and the integration of AVs in the ecosystem,” said a statement. “Abdul Latif Jameel, in collaboration with Uber, will play a pivotal role in accelerating the deployment of AVs, supporting local fleet operations.”

In the UAE, Uber is working with the authorities to bring in self-driving vehicles to market. (In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, multiple entities are gunning for a future where self-driving taxi rides will be the norm.)

"We’re thrilled to collaborate with Abdul Latif Jameel to advance and accelerate a future of mobility that is electric, shared, and autonomous in the country," said Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber.

"Our goal is to make Uber the best platform for AV technology and continue to introduce both autonomous and human-driven mobility solutions to help people get where they need to go, effortlessly.’’

Manoj NairBusiness Editor

Manoj Nair, the Gulf News Business Editor, is an expert on property and gold in the UAE and wider region, and these days he is also keeping an eye on stocks as well. Manoj cares a lot for luxury brands and what make them tick, as well as keep close watch on whatever changes the retail industry goes through, whether on the grand scale or incremental. He’s been with Gulf News for 30 years, having started as a Business Reporter. When not into financial journalism, Manoj prefers to see as much of 1950s-1980s Bollywood movies. He reckons the combo is as exciting as it gets, though many will vehemently disagree.