he trial phase of ‘Dhahaina’ (Smart), a new self-driving electric vehicle (EV), has been launched in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with the goal of raising awareness and promoting adoption of autonomous vehicle technology. Additionally, the initiative seeks to reduce the number of transport-related accidents and fatalities, improve intracity mobility, and reduce the transportation sector’s environmental impact. The launch event is viewed as one of the first steps toward establishing AV legislation, regulations, and systems in Saudi Arabia. The Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services’ AV program aligns with its goal of providing solutions for smart mobility and anticipating future market developments. The ministry aims to establish a national regulatory framework for AVs in collaboration with relevant entities, prioritizing user safety, simplifying procedures, and attracting investors. It is also working to integrate modern technologies into all transport sectors, including land, rail, sea, air, and logistics services.
In addition, NEOM has invested $175 million in Volocopter, a leading provider of urban air mobility systems, with the aim of operating electric air taxi services in NEOM to connect various regions in Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority is working to establish a comprehensive framework for the operation of flying taxis in Dubai, in line with the Dubai Self-Driving Transport Strategy.