Dubai launches region’s first drone delivery system

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, has launched the Middle East’s first drone delivery system at Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO).

Sheikh Hamdan placed the inaugural order through the drone delivery system, sending a package from the Rochester Institute of Technology-Dubai (RIT-Dubai), one of the designated landing points within DSO’s drone network. The order was successfully delivered from one of the take-off points in the community.

In his remarks, Sheikh Hamdan reaffirmed Dubai’s commitment to fostering a smart and innovative logistics infrastructure. “We continue to support projects that drive a diversified, flexible digital economy by leveraging advanced technology in Dubai, and empowering the aviation and air transport sectors,” he said. “This aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position Dubai among the world’s top three urban economies.”

Sheikh Hamdan also highlighted Dubai’s strategic focus on research and development (R&D) as critical drivers for economic growth. He referenced several of Dubai’s ongoing programmes aimed at developing smart city solutions, including the Dubai Programme to Enable Drone Transportation, the Dubai Robotics and Automation Program, and Dubai’s annual plan to accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence. “We are reaping the impressive results of these initiatives and continuing transformational projects that will double the size of Dubai’s economy by 2033,” he added.

Dubai is positioning itself as a leader in robotic technologies, self-driving systems, and the integration of AI across multiple sectors. The future of robotic technologies and self-driving systems for retail services, and knowledge-based economic applications, innovation, digital transformation and the use of artificial intelligence have all become a reality in Dubai,” said Sheikh Hamdan.

Part of the broader ‘drone’ programme

This drone delivery system, developed through collaboration between the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), and the Dubai Future Foundation, is part of the broader Dubai Program to Enable Drone Transportation, launched in 2021.

The system includes dedicated air routes designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing airspace within DSO.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, president of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, chairman of Dubai Airports, chairman and CEO of Emirates Group and chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority, praised Dubai’s leadership in aviation, logistics, and future mobility. “Dubai is now one of the most advanced hubs for air transport and aviation solutions,” he noted.

The drone delivery project has been tested in a series of pilot operations in Dubai Silicon Oasis, ensuring that the drones meet the highest aviation safety and security standards.

The drones are equipped with cutting-edge technology, including flight control systems, low-noise propellers, and multi-sensor fusion positioning technology.

Dr Mohammed Al Zarooni, executive chairman of DIEZ, emphasised the importance of supporting technological innovations that improve daily life. “We are proud to be a key partner in launching drone delivery operations at DSO, which has become a recognised lab for the latest smart technologies,” he said.

The Dubai Future Foundation, under the leadership of  Khalfan Belhoul, CEO, has played a crucial role in driving these initiatives. “This achievement reflects Dubai’s remarkable success in developing advanced infrastructure and systems to support the growth of smart mobility,” Belhoul said.

With drone delivery services expected to cover 33 per cent of Dubai by 2030, the project positions the city as a global leader in smart mobility. Mohammed Abdullah Linjawi, DG DCAA, added, “Drone delivery will enhance Dubai’s role as a global hub for innovation, while improving quality of life and driving future economic growth.”

Dr Yinian Mao, VP of Meituan and president of Keeta Drone, expressed excitement over the collaboration, noting that Dubai Silicon Oasis offers an ideal platform for expanding drone delivery operations in the region.

“We are thrilled to partner with DIEZ and contribute to Dubai’s role as a leader in smart logistics and technology,” Mao stated.

The project also includes the participation of the Rochester Institute of Technology in Dubai (RIT-Dubai), which is using this initiative to enhance academic competencies and empower local talent. Dr Yousef Al-Assaf, President of RIT-Dubai, highlighted the importance of the project in advancing research and developing the region’s technology landscape.

Read: Abu Dhabi pilots MENA’s first passenger-carrying drone flights