Abu Dhabi has successfully completed its first autonomous drone parcel delivery, marking a key milestone in the emirate’s drive toward smart mobility and logistics innovation.
Backed by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), the pilot project was led by aviation technology firm LODD and 7X, a major player in trade, transport, and logistics, which oversees delivery provider EMX. The drone flight took place in Khalifa City and demonstrated a secure, winch-based drop of a simulated package from a local post office to a designated zone.
The test is part of a broader initiative under the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC), supported by ADIO’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) cluster. It aims to accelerate the adoption of smart transport systems and reinforce Abu Dhabi’s role as a global hub for advanced industry and innovation.
“ADIO is proud to champion the development and rollout of cutting-edge logistics technologies that strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global innovation hub,” said Omran Malek, Head of the SAVI Cluster at ADIO. “This pilot is a powerful example of the kind of local partnerships and forward-thinking strategies that drive long-term economic and infrastructure value for the Emirate.”
The project was conducted with oversight from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Integrated Transport Centre. Ensuring the safe integration of drones into Abu Dhabi’s airspace remains a key focus for regulators.
“Ensuring the safety and security of our airspace remains a top priority,” said Humaid Saber Al Hameli, Director of the Aviation Transport Division at the Integrated Transport Centre. He emphasized that the initiative “reflects the strength of collaboration between the public and private sectors” and supports Abu Dhabi’s vision of becoming a leader in sustainable and future-focused mobility.
Rashid Al Manai, CEO of LODD, said the use of autonomous drones brings scalability and agility to urban delivery networks. “With one operator able to manage multiple deliveries simultaneously, the system brings a new level of scalability and responsiveness to the logistics chain.”
Tariq Al Wahedi, Group CEO of 7X, noted that integrating drones into EMX’s operations “enhances operational reach and speed” while aligning with the UAE’s vision for smart mobility.
The project team is now working with regulators to gather insights, refine systems, and prepare for a broader rollout.
