Dubai has officially launched drone delivery services for medicines and parcels, starting in Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO). The initiative, spearheaded by the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), granted its first license to Keeta Drone, marking a new milestone in the emirate’s adoption of advanced transportation technologies.
According to a Khaleej Times report, during a signing ceremony on Tuesday, the DCAA announced four operational routes within DSO, covering locations such as the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT-Dubai) and Dubai Digital Park. These routes aim to provide fast and efficient delivery of food, medicine, and essential items.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, placed the first order through the drone delivery system. The order, originating from RIT-Dubai, was successfully delivered, showcasing the potential of the technology.
Keeta Drone, a subsidiary of Chinese technology giant Meituan, will initially operate with six drones. Future plans include expanding coverage across Dubai, with the goal of reaching 33% of the city by 2030.
“This aligns with Dubai’s strategy to build a diversified, flexible digital economy and empower the aviation and air transport sectors,” said Sheikh Hamdan.
The initiative is part of Dubai’s broader efforts to embrace smart mobility solutions, including drones and flying cars, to reduce traffic congestion and enhance efficiency. Collaboration with partners such as Fakeeh University Hospital and Americana further highlights the potential for drone technology in emergency and high-priority medical services.
Keeta Drone’s entry into Dubai follows its success in China, where it operates over 50 routes in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, having completed more than 400,000 deliveries.
The DCAA emphasized the system’s safety, reliability, and rigorous testing over the past year and a half. “Dubai is set to become a global leader in drone delivery, with a long-term plan to expand across the city,” said Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi, DCAA director-general.
