1:57 pm - February 16, 2026
Abu Dhabi has taken a pioneering step in modernising its transport and logistics sector with the launch of its first test flight for a drone parcel delivery service. The trial, conducted over Khalifa City, involved an autonomous drone transporting a package from a local post office to a designated drop zone using a secure winch-based delivery system. This innovation aims to slash delivery costs and times by leveraging aerial routes, thereby enabling service providers to reach more customers more efficiently. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to integrate advanced autonomous transport solutions into the emirate’s infrastructure, reflecting a commitment to smart mobility and technological advancement.
This pilot project is the product of a collaboration between the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), aviation technology company LODD, and 7X, an investment holding group encompassing Emirates Post and express delivery provider EMX. Omran Malek, head of the Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry at ADIO, described the move as a significant milestone that solidifies Abu Dhabi’s position as a global innovation hub. The effort aligns with the objectives of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council, which seeks to harness cutting-edge technology to enhance logistics networks and push forward smart mobility solutions, supported by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Integrated Transport Centre. Regulatory frameworks are actively being developed to govern the safe and secure integration of unmanned aerial systems into existing transport ecosystems, an aspect emphasised by Humaid Saber Al Hameli, director of the Aviation Transport Division at the Integrated Transport Centre.
The operational advantages of drone delivery were highlighted by Rashid Al Manai, chief executive of LODD, who pointed out that drones can conduct multiple deliveries simultaneously, boosting efficiency and scalability. This trial serves as a critical validation of the role autonomous aerial vehicles can play in future-proofing Abu Dhabi’s logistics infrastructure. It complements similar initiatives across the UAE, such as the drone delivery service launched in Dubai’s Silicon Oasis by Keeta Drone, a subsidiary of the Chinese technology firm Meituan, which focuses on delivering food and medicine. These efforts indicate a regional push to embrace robotics, self-driving systems, and artificial intelligence to revolutionise retail and delivery services, reflecting the ambitious vision articulated by Dubai’s Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed.
Moreover, the UAE is advancing other groundbreaking transport technologies alongside drone deliveries. Recent test flights of self-flying air taxis in Abu Dhabi, organised by the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council and ADIO in partnership with Chinese manufacturer EHang and fintech group Multi Level Group, represent a pivotal move towards urban air mobility. American air taxi company Archer Aviation also plans to deploy its fleet of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in the UAE, further signalling the Gulf’s role as an innovation launchpad for futuristic transport modes. Additionally, Abu Dhabi has been hosting the Middle East’s first passenger-carrying drone trials, showcasing vehicles capable of carrying two to five passengers over distances exceeding 25 kilometres. These developments underscore a broader strategic ambition to position Abu Dhabi and the UAE at the forefront of sustainable, intelligent, and autonomous transport solutions on a global scale.
In parallel, Emirates Post Group has entered into a partnership with SkyGo, an aerial logistics provider, to utilise drones for delivering postal mail and parcels across Abu Dhabi. This aligns with Emirates Post’s vision for faster, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable last-mile logistics. Abdulla Mohammed Alashram, Group CEO of Emirates Post Group, expressed enthusiasm for advancing drone delivery operations commercially, emphasising the transformative potential of this technology in optimising delivery routes and reducing carbon emissions. As the regulatory environment matures and operational know-how grows, the UAE’s logistical landscape is poised for significant transformation driven by drone technology and autonomous systems.
Overall, Abu Dhabi’s test flight marks a key milestone within a comprehensive national strategy to integrate autonomous aerial technologies into daily life. The continued collaboration between government entities, technology firms, and investment groups reflects a forward-thinking approach to economic diversification, infrastructure development, and innovation. With airspace safety and regulatory oversight firmly central to progress, the emirate is steadily progressing towards a future where drones and autonomous vehicles form an integral part of its transport ecosystem, enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and quality of life.
📌 Reference Map:
- Paragraph 1 – [1], [2], [3], [4]
- Paragraph 2 – [1], [2], [3], [4]
- Paragraph 3 – [1], [2], [3], [4]
- Paragraph 4 – [1], [5], [6], [7]
- Paragraph 5 – [1], [5], [6], [7]
Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://www.thenationalnews.com/news/uae/2025/06/25/first-drone-parcel-delivery-flight-takes-off-in-abu-dhabi/ – Please view link – unable to able to access data
- https://www.thenationalnews.com/news/uae/2025/06/25/first-drone-parcel-delivery-flight-takes-off-in-abu-dhabi/ – Abu Dhabi has initiated its first test flight for a drone parcel delivery service, marking a significant advancement in modernising the emirate’s transport network. The trial, conducted over Khalifa City, involved a drone transporting a package from a local post office to a designated drop zone using a secure winch-based delivery system. This autonomous transport method aims to reduce costs and delivery times, enabling providers to reach more customers by utilising aerial routes. The trial was a collaborative effort between the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), aviation technology company LODD, and 7X, an investment holding group that includes Emirates Post and express delivery provider EMX. Omran Malek, head of the Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry at ADIO, expressed pride in supporting the development and rollout of advanced logistics technologies that strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global innovation hub. The initiative is part of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council’s strategy to harness advanced technology to improve logistics networks and promote smart mobility, with support from the General Civil Aviation Authority and the Integrated Transport Centre. Efforts are ongoing to establish regulations that will support the broader commercial use of autonomous air transport services. Humaid Saber Al Hameli, director of the Aviation Transport Division at the Integrated Transport Centre, emphasised the importance of ensuring the safety and security of airspace, stating that work continues to advance regulatory frameworks necessary for the safe and effective integration of unmanned aerial systems into Abu Dhabi’s transport ecosystem. Rashid Al Manai, chief executive of LODD, highlighted the scalability of drone operations, noting that using drones allows an operator to carry out several deliveries simultaneously. This trial represents a significant step towards integrating autonomous aerial logistics into Abu Dhabi’s transport infrastructure, aligning with the emirate’s vision for smart mobility and technological innovation.
- https://economymiddleeast.com/news/lodd-7x-first-parcel-delivery-trial-drone-abu-dhabi/ – Aviation technology firm LODD and 7X have launched the first pilot flight for autonomous drone parcel deliveries in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant development in the emirate’s logistics sector. The trial is part of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council’s strategy, supported by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), to develop and adopt smart and integrated mobility solutions in Abu Dhabi. Conducted under the oversight of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Integrated Transport Centre, the initiative aims to enable smart mobility solutions through ADIO’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) cluster. The first test flight, conducted in Abu Dhabi’s Khalifa City, demonstrated the viability of parcel delivery by drone. A drone transported a simulated package from a local post office to a designated drop zone using a secure winch-based delivery system. Humaid Saber Al Hameli from the Integrated Transport Centre emphasised that airspace safety remains a priority, noting ongoing efforts to develop regulatory frameworks that support the integration of unmanned aerial systems into Abu Dhabi’s transport ecosystem. This pilot trial showcases collaboration between public and private sectors, representing progress towards smart aerial mobility in Abu Dhabi. The emirate aims to maintain its competitive edge globally by fostering sustainable mobility and future-focused technologies.
- https://www.zawya.com/en/business/technology-and-telecom/lodd-7x-conduct-first-parcel-delivery-trial-by-drone-in-abu-dhabi-hce7pm7h – LODD, an aviation technology firm, and 7X, an investment holding group overseeing logistics and express delivery provider EMX, have conducted the first pilot flight for autonomous drone parcel deliveries in Abu Dhabi. This trial is part of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council’s strategy, supported by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), to develop and adopt smart and integrated mobility solutions in the emirate. The initiative is conducted under the oversight of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Integrated Transport Centre, aiming to enable smart mobility solutions through ADIO’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) cluster. The first test flight, conducted in Abu Dhabi’s Khalifa City, demonstrated the viability of parcel delivery by drone. A drone transported a simulated package from a local post office to a designated drop zone using a secure winch-based delivery system. Humaid Saber Al Hameli from the Integrated Transport Centre emphasised that airspace safety remains a priority, noting ongoing efforts to develop regulatory frameworks that support the integration of unmanned aerial systems into Abu Dhabi’s transport ecosystem. This pilot trial showcases collaboration between public and private sectors, representing progress towards smart aerial mobility in Abu Dhabi. The emirate aims to maintain its competitive edge globally by fostering sustainable mobility and future-focused technologies.
- https://gulfnews.com/uae/transport/drones-to-deliver-postal-mail-parcels-in-abu-dhabi-1.98727305 – Emirates Post Group (EPG) and SkyGo, an aerial logistics provider, have signed an agreement to implement drone-powered logistics and delivery services between designated locations in Abu Dhabi. This partnership aligns with EPG’s strategic vision of a future where drone-powered delivery services transform last-mile logistics, providing speed, efficiency, and environmental sustainability. The strategic partnership coincides with the official launch of the Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) cluster in Abu Dhabi, which aims to position the emirate as a global leader in the smart and autonomous vehicle industry. EPG envisions a seamless network of drone points, powered by SkyGo, to enhance the speed and efficiency of delivering postal items and small parcels through its postal and express business, managed by Emirates Post. This streamlined approach will significantly improve accessibility to remote areas, reduce carbon emissions and delivery times, to better serve customers and communities. Abdulla Mohammed Alashram, Group CEO of Emirates Post Group, stated: “As we embark on this next phase of collaboration with SkyGo, we fortify our commitment to enabling advancements within the logistics industry. Building on the success of our trials of short-range and long-range drone deliveries, we are now excited for Emirates Post to begin operating between designated spots in Abu Dhabi.” He added: “We will closely at refining delivery routes and enhancing operational efficiency to provide drone delivery services as a commercial offering. This strategic partnership will not only optimise our delivery operations but also drive transformative change in the logistics landscape, aligning with our vision of sustainable, technology driven growth.”
- https://www.mediaoffice.abudhabi/en/transport/middle-easts-first-passenger-carrying-drone-trials-take-place-in-abu-dhabi/ – Abu Dhabi has continued its efforts to shape the future of smart and sustainable mobility by conducting the first passenger-carrying drone trials in the Middle East. The trials took place during the inaugural Abu Dhabi Mobility Week, held from 24 April to 1 May 2024. Multi Level Group (MLG), in association with Abu Dhabi Mobility, presented an exhibition of its cutting-edge technology, including two test flights. The first featured a five-seater drone capable of travelling for more than 25km, with a payload up to 350kg, while the second involved a small-sized drone, capable of carrying two passengers and travelling for up to 35km for a duration of approximately 20 minutes. This milestone represents a significant addition to Abu Dhabi’s track record of achievements in this crucial sector, as it continues to consolidate its position as a global hub for transportation solutions and smart and autonomous vehicles, utilising its advanced infrastructure in the field of artificial intelligence technologies and smart and autonomous vehicles.
- https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/watch-uaes-first-passenger-carrying-drone-trial-takes-place-in-abu-dhabi – The first passenger-carrying drone trial in the Middle East has been carried out in Abu Dhabi during Abu Dhabi Mobility Week. The trial involved a small-sized drone, which can carry two passengers for up to 35km. The duration of the flight was approximately 20 minutes. Trials also included a five-seater drone, capable of travelling more than 250km, and a payload of up to 350kg. The five-seater drone travelled for 123km within a duration of 40 minutes. The drone trials were conducted by Abu Dhabi Mobility in association with Multi Level Group, a fintech group. Mohammed Hamad Al Dhaheri, a member of the Board of Directors of the Multi Level Group, said that future plans involved manufacturing drones in the UAE, “starting with drone structure and gradually moving forward until we manufacture small parts such as motors and batteries, ensuring the technology is fully developed and exported from the UAE to the world.”
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
10
Notes:
✅ The narrative is fresh, with the earliest known publication date being June 25, 2025. No earlier versions with different figures, dates, or quotes were found. The content is not recycled or republished across low-quality sites. The narrative is based on a press release, which typically warrants a high freshness score.
Quotes check
Score:
10
Notes:
✅ All quotes are original to this narrative, with no identical quotes found in earlier material. No variations in wording were noted.
Source reliability
Score:
10
Notes:
✅ The narrative originates from The National, a reputable news organisation, lending credibility to the information presented.
Plausability check
Score:
10
Notes:
✅ The claims made in the narrative are plausible and align with known developments in Abu Dhabi’s logistics and smart mobility sectors. The narrative includes specific factual anchors, such as names, institutions, and dates, enhancing its credibility. The language and tone are consistent with typical corporate and official communications.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): HIGH
Summary:
✅ The narrative is fresh, original, and originates from a reputable source. All quotes are unique to this report, and the claims made are plausible and well-supported. The language and tone are appropriate, with no inconsistencies or suspicious elements noted.
