UAE introduces first Sovereign Mobility Cloud to lead autonomous transport innovation

Space42, a UAE-based company focused on AI-driven SpaceTech, has announced a pretty big step forward for the country’s autonomous mobility scene. They’ve developed what’s being called the UAE’s very first Sovereign Mobility Cloud. This is made possible through Core42’s Sovereign Public Cloud, which harnesses Microsoft Azure’s robust features. The goal here? To push ahead with autonomous transportation solutions – but importantly, all data stays securely hosted right within the UAE, following strict national regulations.

This new cloud solution was first introduced at the Dubai World Congress. It marks a major collaboration, bringing together Space42’s deep expertise in smart mobility with Microsoft’s powerful cloud infrastructure and wide-ranging logistics tools. Dr. Fan Zhu, who’s the Senior Vice President of Autonomous Mobility at Space42, explained that this project sets a new benchmark globally for secure, trustworthy platforms in mobility tech and autonomous systems. It’s a clear sign that the UAE wants to hold a leadership role in technological innovation.

Microsoft’s involvement is pretty crucial. Sherif Tawfik, the Chief Partnership Officer for AI & Cloud for Sovereignty at Microsoft, pointed out how Azure provides a reliable base, with features like data residency, compliance, and confidential computing. These are further strengthened by Insight’s sovereign controls platform, making sure the whole system maintains top-level security and respects data sovereignty within the region.

The Sovereign Mobility Cloud is envisioned to operate as a smart transport hub—an infrastructure that manages various types of mobility data and supports autonomous systems. It will offer core services like HD mapping, telematics, fleet management, traffic control, and digital twins—these virtual replicas of real-world assets help with monitoring and optimizing operations. An important part of the platform is its ability to securely share data across government agencies, industry stakeholders, and research institutions. This collaboration encourages innovation and growth within the UAE’s rapidly expanding autonomous mobility sector.

Looking ahead, there are plans to establish deployment references, regulatory sandboxes, and test hubs in partnership with UAE transport authorities. These controlled environments will give space for testing, piloting, and scaling autonomous tech safely and effectively. Plus, Space42 wants to team up with global automotive, tech, and academic partners—really aiming to position the UAE as a worldwide hub for mobility innovation.

This isn’t merely a tech rollout—Space42 will lead in deploying mobility apps, managing regulatory relationships, and running pilots and commercial launches. Meanwhile, Microsoft and Core42 will provide the sovereign cloud infrastructure, ensuring all compliance needs are met through rigorous AI tools and data governance frameworks. Microsoft is also committed to providing training and technical support to help develop local talent and industry capacity.

This project builds on Space42’s solid track record in the UAE’s autonomous driving space. Since 2021, their TXAI autonomous driving service has completed nearly 600,000 kilometers of incident-free driving and carried out 20,000 passenger trips. The service runs in spots like Saadiyat, Yas, Al Maryah, Al Reem Islands, and Abu Dhabi Airport. Beyond autonomous vehicles, Space42 is also advancing smart infrastructure—using HD maps, digital twins, and AI-powered fleet management—supporting the country’s broader vision to become a global leader in intelligent transportation.

Their ecosystem partnerships further highlight their leadership position. For example, Space42 works with Dynamic Map Platform North America (DMP) to provide high-resolution 3D maps essential for autonomous driving. This collaboration even supports integration with General Motors’ Super Cruise, enhancing driverless travel capabilities across the UAE. They’ve also worked with Microsoft and Esri on the “Map Africa Initiative,” which aims to build a detailed continent-wide geospatial map to bolster spatial intelligence in Africa.

The launch of this Sovereign Mobility Cloud ties directly into the UAE’s broader goal of leading in AI and autonomous tech, backed by investments in infrastructure, governance, and research. Because the nation emphasizes data sovereignty, ensuring data remains within local borders and complies with regulations is more important than ever.

And it’s not just mobility—Space42’s expanding its sovereign tech portfolio too. They’ve partnered with EDGE Group’s FADA on a joint venture to boost the UAE’s space capabilities. This includes developing an integrated Earth Observation system that leverages AI to support space-based solutions and strengthen the country’s economic resilience.

All in all, the Sovereign Mobility Cloud stands as a milestone. It’s where AI, cloud technology, and autonomous systems come together to enhance the UAE’s position as a global innovation hub. By protecting data sovereignty, encouraging regulatory cooperation, and supporting advanced mobility, this platform sets the stage for next-generation transport networks—aligned with national goals and pushing the boundaries in the evolution of smart cities and connected transportation.

Source: Noah Wire Services