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Riyadh Embarks on Pilot Program for Autonomous Vehicles
Riyadh is taking a notable step towards the future of transportation wiht the launch of an initial applied phase for self-driving vehicles. This pioneering initiative,overseen by the General Transport Authority,will see autonomous vehicles operating within a realistic surroundings across King Khalid International Airport and several key locations throughout the city. The program will also extend to major roadways and select destinations in Riyadh’s city center.
The private sector is a crucial partner in this endeavor,with technical and operational expertise provided by companies such as “iDrive” and “WeRide.”
To ensure the highest safety standards during this initial phase, each vehicle will be accompanied by a dedicated safety official. This measure is in place to guarantee security and to meticulously monitor the performance of the smart systems under real-world conditions.
The Minister of Transport emphasized that this initial applied stage is a testament to the Kingdom’s ambitious vision for a comprehensive and integrated transportation system designed to fuel economic growth and enhance the quality of life for its citizens. He highlighted the importance of embracing modern technologies and developing robust organizational and operational frameworks as key strategies for expanding the application of this technology and supporting the ongoing transformation within the transport sector.
The Minister further underscored the significance of fostering sustainability, improving the efficiency of this technological transition, and promoting the localization of innovation. He presented this project as a prime example of successful public-private sector collaboration, paving the way for a more intelligent and secure transportation future in the Kingdom.
The initial phase of this program is slated to last for 12 months, after which an expansion is planned.
Dr. Omaima Bazqaq, the agent for enabling transportation at the General Transport Authority, elaborated on the program in a statement to “Al-Ikhbaria.” She confirmed that the authority will maintain direct supervision over this initial phase,with the goal of enabling the technology and facilitating its broader implementation across the Kingdom in the future.
Dr. Bazqaq detailed that the initial operations will encompass seven vital areas within Riyadh. These include specific zones at King Khalid International Airport (al-Salban No. 2 and No. 5), the Roshn Business front, and the highways connecting these destinations.A total of 13 stations will be established for passenger pick-up and drop-off.Reiterating the commitment to safety, she confirmed the presence of a “safety official” in every vehicle throughout this initial 12-month period, prior to the planned nationwide rollout.
Dr. Bazqaq explained that the selected destinations were carefully chosen to serve both residents and visitors of Riyadh. These locations, in addition to King Khalid Airport and the Roshn façade, include Princess Noura University, the North Train Station, and the headquarters of the Transport Authority located north of Riyadh.
She also stated that this launch represents a collaborative effort with leading companies in autonomous driving technology, such as “Uber,” “iDrive,” and “WeRide,” all working together to enable this technology within the Kingdom.
