Saudi Arabia Launches First Autonomous Food Delivery Service in Riyadh

Saudi Arabia has rolled out its first autonomous food delivery service in the ROSHN Front Business Area of Riyadh, marking a significant step toward smarter, more sustainable urban living. The initiative is a collaboration between real estate developer ROSHN Group and local delivery app Jahez, and is officially licensed by the Kingdom’s Transport General Authority.

The pilot program features five self-driving delivery robots operating during working hours, navigating footpaths and delivering meals from nearby restaurants. Each robot is outfitted with over 20 sensors, six cameras, GPS navigation, and climate-adapted cooling systems to ensure safety, accuracy, and reliability—even in Riyadh’s intense heat.

“This launch aligns with our broader strategy of expansion, innovation, and sustainability,” said Jayesh Maganlal, Chief Information and Digital Officer at ROSHN Group. Jahez’s Chief Technology Officer, Mohammed Al-Barrak, added that the company was the first to be licensed under the Transport Authority’s regulatory sandbox, signaling Jahez’s leadership in autonomous logistics.

The robots are designed to navigate busy pedestrian areas, interact with passersby, and even request assistance when needed. ROSHN and Jahez plan to expand the service to shopping malls and residential communities in the near future, with the goal of reducing carbon emissions, alleviating traffic, and improving air quality across Saudi cities.

This rollout builds on Jahez’s earlier announcement of self-driving vehicle delivery trials at the 2024 LEAP Exhibition, further cementing its commitment to automation and innovation in the Kingdom’s fast-growing delivery sector.

Original reporting by Lama Alhamawi for Arab News.