Two groundbreaking transportation deals signed by Saudi conglomerate Abdul Latif Jameel signal the Kingdom’s determination to lead the global mobility revolution, from flying electric taxis to driverless ride-sharing fleets.

The agreements with Joby Aviation and Uber Technologies represent a combined investment commitment potentially worth billions and could transform how people travel in the world’s largest oil-producing nation.

Joby’s electric aircraft promise to ferry passengers across Saudi cities at 200 mph while producing zero emissions—a stark contrast to the Kingdom’s petroleum heritage. Uber’s autonomous vehicle platform could eliminate human drivers entirely from ride-sharing services.

Hassan Jameel, who oversees Abdul Latif Jameel’s Saudi operations, has positioned his family’s 80-year-old business at the forefront of transportation innovation. The company already operates one of the world’s largest Toyota distribution networks and has invested in electric vehicle startups including Rivian.

“Saudi Arabia is transitioning toward a new era of mobility,” Hassan Jameel explained, describing plans for “on-demand, shared, connected, and sustainable” transportation.

The timing coincides with Saudi Arabia’s massive infrastructure spending under Vision 2030. The government has announced plans for futuristic megacities, high-speed rail networks, and tourism destinations that will require advanced transportation solutions.

Joby expects to begin commercial passenger flights in Dubai by 2026, potentially making the Middle East among the first regions to operate electric air taxis commercially. The company’s aircraft can take off and land vertically like helicopters but fly much faster and quieter.

Meanwhile, Uber’s partnership focuses on building autonomous vehicle fleets that could create thousands of jobs while reducing transportation costs. The ride-sharing company operates in multiple Saudi cities and sees the Kingdom as crucial for Middle Eastern expansion.

Abdul Latif Jameel’s international experience—spanning automotive, energy, and technology investments across six continents—provides expertise for implementing these ambitious mobility projects.