First Drone Delivery Trial Conducted in Abu Dhabi

With the support of the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), aviation technology company LODD and investment holding firm 7X, which operates in the transport and logistics sectors, carried out the first test flight for autonomous drone deliveries in the emirate. LODD and 7X aim to continue collaborating with regulators and industry stakeholders to develop procedures, ensure legal compliance, and gather operational insights for broader deployment.

During the inaugural test flight in Khalifa City, a drone successfully delivered a simulated package, collected from a local post office, to a designated drop-off point using a crane-like mechanism.

Drone Delivery Project Aims to Develop Smart and Integrated Mobility Solutions

The project, launched as part of the strategy of ADIO’s Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC), aims to foster the development and adoption of smart and integrated mobility solutions in Abu Dhabi. It also forms part of a broader strategy for implementing smart transportation systems through ADIO’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industries (SAVI) cluster.

This pilot project represents the first phase of a wider strategy to roll out drone-based logistics services across Abu Dhabi. Thanks to its progressive regulations and infrastructure readiness, the emirate is emerging as a leader in autonomous air transportation in the region.

“Drones Are Transforming Urban Delivery Networks”

Omran Malek, Head of ADIO’s SAVI Cluster, said: “At ADIO, we take pride in leading the development of advanced logistics technologies that will position Abu Dhabi as a global hub of innovation. This pilot project is a strong example of forward-thinking strategies and local partnerships that deliver long-term economic and infrastructural value.”

LODD CEO Rashid Al Manai stated, “Autonomous drones are transforming urban delivery networks. A single operator managing multiple deliveries simultaneously brings a new level of scalability and agility to the logistics chain. We are proud to collaborate with 7X, ADIO, the GCAA, and the Integrated Transport Centre to develop this technology in the UAE.”

Tariq Al Wahedi, CEO of 7X Group, added, “This milestone reflects our commitment to developing next-generation logistics solutions aligned with the UAE’s smart mobility vision. By integrating autonomous aerial technology into EMX’s national logistics ecosystem, we are enhancing operational reach and speed while building a more flexible and future-ready network.”