WeRide Inc. (WRD) Stock Surges as Uber Launches First Robotaxi Service in Saudi Arabia

WeRide Inc. (NASDAQ: WRD) saw its stock climb 5.14% to $10.64 following the launch of autonomous Robotaxi services in Riyadh, marking Uber's first deployment of self-driving vehicles in Saudi Arabia. The initiative aligns with the kingdom's Vision 2030 modernization plan, targeting smart transportation systems.

The Robotaxi GXR, operated by WeRide, will initially serve routes between Roshn Front and Princess Noura University. While riders can access the service via Uber's app, human operators remain onboard as a safety precaution during this early phase. Saudi Arabia's Transport General Authority (TGA) has endorsed the project, underscoring its strategic importance.

This expansion builds on WeRide's successful autonomous vehicle rollout in Abu Dhabi, reinforcing its position as a key player in the Middle East's emerging mobility sector. Market sentiment turned bullish as investors reacted to the partnership's potential for scaling autonomous transit solutions.