Abu Dhabi successfully completes drone parcel delivery trial

  The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, announced the successful completion of a trial for parcel delivery using unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) in Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with “LODD Autonomous”, a company specialising in smart delivery solutions and autonomous aerial logistics technologies. 

During the trial, a drone equipped with a robotic arm transported a parcel from Al Samha to KIZAD, relying on an advanced navigation system that ensured high levels of accuracy and efficiency in delivery operations. 

As part of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council’s (SASC) strategy to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading hub for smart mobility, this trial builds on the ITC’s efforts to adopt advanced transport systems that enhance service efficiency, enable sustainable infrastructure and improve quality of life across the emirate. 

ITC also regulates and manages drone operations through the Unified National Platform for “Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)”, ensuring faster approvals and compliance with laws, safety standards, privacy requirements, and airspace protection.

LODD Autonomous also presented the latest updates on its hybrid autonomous aircraft development programme, “Hili” (VTOL), designed for heavy air cargo. The aircraft can carry loads of up to 250 kilogrammes over distances of 300 kilometres, powered by an innovative system combining electric motors with an internal combustion engine. 

With vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capability, it can operate without the need for conventional infrastructure such as airports. 

The “Hili” is expected to represent a breakthrough in medium-range air cargo by linking logistics hubs together, enhancing supply chain efficiency, and supporting the growth of the logistics sector in the region. 

Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director-General of the ITC, said, “The use of drones for delivery reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to adopting the latest global innovations in transport and logistics, and to harnessing technology to improve service quality. At the Integrated Transport Centre, we are keen to support pioneering initiatives of this kind, which contribute to building a smart and sustainable transport ecosystem and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global destination.” 

For his part, Rashed Matar Al Manai, CEO of LODD Autonomous, stated, “The drone-based delivery system improves the efficiency and speed of transport and distribution services, addressing the needs of supply chains and logistics amid rapid e-commerce growth and the drive for faster, more effective solutions.

With drones, parcels can be delivered within just a few hours, rather than the several days required by traditional methods.”