emirates7 - Aviation technology company LODD, in collaboration with 7X—an investment holding group focused on trade, transport, and logistics and the parent company of express delivery provider EMX—has successfully launched Abu Dhabi’s first pilot flight for autonomous drone parcel deliveries. This development marks a significant advancement in the emirate’s logistics sector.
The test flight is part of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC)’s strategy, supported by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), to implement smart, integrated mobility solutions throughout the emirate.
Supervised by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Integrated Transport Centre, this initiative is aligned with ADIO’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) cluster. It supports broader efforts to promote smart mobility, localize manufacturing, build future-proof infrastructure, and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s role as a global center for innovation and high-tech industries.
Omran Malek, Head of the SAVI Cluster at ADIO, stated, “This pilot showcases the type of innovative partnerships and strategic planning that bring long-term economic and infrastructure value to the emirate, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global innovation leader.”
The trial, carried out in Khalifa City, involved a drone transporting a test package from a local post office to a designated drop-off zone using a secure winch delivery mechanism, proving the feasibility of autonomous aerial parcel logistics.
Humaid Saber Al Hameli, Director of the Aviation Transport Division at the Integrated Transport Centre, emphasized that ensuring airspace safety is a core priority. He highlighted that the trial demonstrates effective public-private cooperation and represents a step forward in integrating unmanned aerial systems into Abu Dhabi’s transport network.
He also noted, “We’re dedicated to evolving our regulatory frameworks to support technological advancement, creating an environment that fosters innovation and positions Abu Dhabi as a leader in sustainable and future-oriented mobility.”
LODD CEO Rashid Al Manai remarked, “Autonomous drones are reshaping urban delivery systems. With one operator able to manage multiple drones, the technology significantly boosts scalability and efficiency within logistics operations.”
Tariq Al Wahedi, Group CEO of 7X, added, “This achievement reflects our commitment to leading next-generation logistics aligned with the UAE’s smart mobility goals. By incorporating drone technology into EMX’s logistics network, we’re expanding delivery capabilities and creating a more agile and responsive infrastructure for modern commerce.”
This pilot flight represents the initial phase of a larger plan to expand drone-based delivery services across Abu Dhabi. With robust infrastructure and evolving regulations, the emirate is positioning itself at the forefront of autonomous air mobility in the region.
The test flight is part of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC)’s strategy, supported by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), to implement smart, integrated mobility solutions throughout the emirate.
Supervised by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Integrated Transport Centre, this initiative is aligned with ADIO’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) cluster. It supports broader efforts to promote smart mobility, localize manufacturing, build future-proof infrastructure, and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s role as a global center for innovation and high-tech industries.
Omran Malek, Head of the SAVI Cluster at ADIO, stated, “This pilot showcases the type of innovative partnerships and strategic planning that bring long-term economic and infrastructure value to the emirate, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global innovation leader.”
The trial, carried out in Khalifa City, involved a drone transporting a test package from a local post office to a designated drop-off zone using a secure winch delivery mechanism, proving the feasibility of autonomous aerial parcel logistics.
Humaid Saber Al Hameli, Director of the Aviation Transport Division at the Integrated Transport Centre, emphasized that ensuring airspace safety is a core priority. He highlighted that the trial demonstrates effective public-private cooperation and represents a step forward in integrating unmanned aerial systems into Abu Dhabi’s transport network.
He also noted, “We’re dedicated to evolving our regulatory frameworks to support technological advancement, creating an environment that fosters innovation and positions Abu Dhabi as a leader in sustainable and future-oriented mobility.”
LODD CEO Rashid Al Manai remarked, “Autonomous drones are reshaping urban delivery systems. With one operator able to manage multiple drones, the technology significantly boosts scalability and efficiency within logistics operations.”
Tariq Al Wahedi, Group CEO of 7X, added, “This achievement reflects our commitment to leading next-generation logistics aligned with the UAE’s smart mobility goals. By incorporating drone technology into EMX’s logistics network, we’re expanding delivery capabilities and creating a more agile and responsive infrastructure for modern commerce.”
This pilot flight represents the initial phase of a larger plan to expand drone-based delivery services across Abu Dhabi. With robust infrastructure and evolving regulations, the emirate is positioning itself at the forefront of autonomous air mobility in the region.