The Transport General Authority (TGA) of Saudi Arabia will make it mandatory for all parcel deliveries to include a national address starting from January 2026, in a bid to improve logistics and delivery services. This new regulation aims to enhance delivery accuracy and efficiency, benefiting both individuals and businesses.

From January 1, 2026, all parcel shipments within Saudi Arabia will not be accepted by delivery companies unless they include a valid national address. This new regulation is designed to streamline logistics operations across the Kingdom and improve service quality.

The TGA emphasized that both individuals and businesses must register their national addresses before the policy takes effect. The national address will be a key component of the new delivery system, ensuring that shipments reach their correct destinations.

TGA’s Goal: Efficient Parcel Deliveries

The TGA stated that this move aligns with the broader goals of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy. By improving location accuracy, the new regulation is expected to enhance logistics efficiency, support e-commerce growth, improve government services, and enable public entities to provide better services to beneficiaries.

Individuals can register their national address through platforms such as Absher, Tawakkalna, Sehhaty, and SPL. The TGA aims to ensure that all parcels are delivered accurately and efficiently, further boosting Saudi Arabia’s growing logistics and e-commerce sectors.

Yango Group, a global leader in technology-driven logistics, and Noon, the region’s leading homegrown e-commerce platform, have teamed up to expand last-mile deliveries across the UAE and, eventually, the entire GCC region. This collaboration begins with Noon Minutes customers in Dubai, transitioning autonomous robot deliveries from a pilot phase to a fully operational service. The scaling of the service will rely on real-time data, performance metrics, and customer feedback.

Autonomous Delivery Option Available on the Noon App

This launch marks a new chapter for both companies, as they introduce innovative solutions to improve urban logistics. Yango Autonomy’s fully electric robots have started fulfilling quick-commerce orders in Dubai’s Sobha Hartland community. Customers can now select the autonomous delivery option directly during checkout on the Noon app, track the robot’s journey in real-time on the map, and unlock the robot’s secure compartment upon arrival using their smartphones.

Expanding Autonomous Delivery Across the GCC

Although the service is initially limited to Dubai, both companies plan to scale the autonomous delivery service across the wider GCC region. The rollout will be based on operational data, customer feedback, and integration with the region’s infrastructure.

Ali Kafil-Hussain, Chief Business Officer at Noon, emphasized the importance of integrating autonomous technologies into the company’s last-mile delivery network. “Partnering with Yango Group allows us to offer a future-ready delivery option to our customers. Autonomous robots not only increase delivery capacity during peak times but also help reduce emissions, alleviate congestion, and provide a modern, contactless solution for consumers accustomed to digital solutions.”

“Our Robots Have Proven Reliable in Dubai’s Streets”

The autonomous robots are fully electric and powered by Yango’s AI-based navigation and routing technology. These robots independently plan their routes, navigate obstacles, and yield to pedestrians. Having already completed over 1,500 kilometers of fully autonomous travel in previous Dubai pilots, these robots have demonstrated their operational efficiency in real-world residential environments.

Nikita Gavrilov, Regional Head of Yango Tech Autonomy, stated, “Our robots have already proven reliable in Dubai’s streets. The next step is to scale this service and ensure it seamlessly integrates into daily operations.”

Dubai’s Commitment to Smart Mobility Solutions

This initiative aligns with Dubai’s vision of becoming a global hub for digital innovation and smart city infrastructure. With approval from the city’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Yango’s autonomous delivery robots are authorized to operate on public walkways and within residential areas, reflecting Dubai’s commitment to piloting and adopting innovative mobility solutions.

Islam Abdul Karim, Regional Head of Yango Group Middle East, views this collaboration as a significant step toward making autonomous deliveries a reliable everyday service. “By combining Yango’s AI-powered delivery experience with Noon’s strong e-commerce presence, we are paving the way for smarter mobility and more sustainable digital cities.”

This partnership offers a glimpse into the future of e-commerce and delivery, where AI-powered solutions and autonomous technologies come together to create a smoother, more sustainable urban experience. As the service expands, it will lay the groundwork for similar innovations across the Middle East, with Dubai continuing to play a leading role in the development of future-oriented city infrastructure.

Noon Prepares to Launch 15 Minute Drone Deliveries Across the UAE

The Netherlands-based sustainable stationery brand Moyu is bringing its environmental mission into the packaging sector with Stonepacker, a reusable shipping box made from stone paper. Designed to withstand approximately 25 reuse cycles and fully recyclable at the end of its lifespan, Stonepacker aims to reduce the e-commerce industry’s heavy reliance on single-use cardboard.

The new packaging solution is integrated with Boxo’s national return network, which allows users to drop off empty boxes at designated points across the Netherlands. Once the box is returned, consumers automatically receive a €3.95 deposit refund, encouraging continuous circular reuse. After each use cycle, the boxes are inspected, cleaned, and prepared for redistribution. Once they reach around 25 uses, they are recycled into new stone paper boxes.

Stonepacker: A Strong Alternative to Single-Use Cardboard

While discussions around packaging waste often focus on plastic, Moyu emphasizes that single-use cardboard also contributes significantly to deforestation, water consumption, and CO₂ emissions. In contrast, Stonepacker uses no trees, water, or bleaching chemicals during production. The company states that producing stone paper generates 94% less CO₂ compared to traditional paper.

Stone paper is made from limestone residues generated during mining operations. These residues are processed into calcium carbonate powder and combined with recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) to create a durable, water-resistant material—making it well-suited for reusable logistics applications.

Strong Interest from Retailers and E-Commerce Companies

Moyu founder Roel Schatorjé says demand from retail, logistics, and e-commerce sectors has increased rapidly since the company expanded into packaging solutions. With European sustainability regulations —particularly the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)— pushing for more reusable systems, many brands have already begun exploring pilot projects.

“One large company asked us, ‘How have we not heard about this before?’ We are open to collaborations with frontrunners who want to structurally reduce their packaging waste,” Schatorjé explains.

Stone Paper Aiming to Become the Standard in Packaging

Founded in 2019, Moyu has reached more than 380,000 users and over 2,500 corporate clients, primarily through its erasable stone paper notebooks. The company reports saving millions of liters of water and reducing CO₂ emissions by replacing traditional paper with stone paper.

With Stonepacker, Moyu aims to extend stone paper beyond stationery. Schatorjé adds: “We envision a future where stone paper becomes the standard material not only for notebooks but also for packaging.”

As global e-commerce volumes continue to surge, reusable packaging solutions like Stonepacker are increasingly viewed as scalable and impactful tools for waste reduction, sustainability efforts, and environmental transformation.

BARQ, one of the pioneering companies in last-mile delivery in Saudi Arabia, was founded in mid-2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. At that time, reliable delivery had become not a luxury but a necessity. From the very first day, its vision was clear: to empower businesses of every size with smart, seamless, and extremely fast delivery solutions. The company aims to transform last-mile delivery in Saudi Arabia and beyond, setting new standards for speed, reliability, and customer satisfaction.

BARQ Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) Mohammed AlMarwani was a guest of WORLDEF E-COMMERCE MAGAZINE. AlMarwani explained what BARQ contributes to e-commerce in Saudi Arabia, the company’s vision, the future of the sector, and the transformation of artificial intelligence.

“Our promise is simple: To make logistics invisible”

BARQ CCO Mohammed AlMarwani gave the following answer to the question “What do you promise to the ecosystem?” regarding the company’s products and services related to the e-commerce ecosystem: “We serve as the bridge between e-commerce businesses and their customers. Through our in-house technologies and dedicated fleet, we offer services ranging from 15-minute express delivery to same-day delivery. Our promise to the ecosystem is simple: To make logistics invisible. That means no delays, no uncertainty; just a smooth, reliable delivery experience. This builds trust and ensures that customers keep coming back.”

“Artificial intelligence is at the core of our operations”

Touching on the impact of artificial intelligence in the sector, AlMarwani then explained the company’s artificial intelligence strategy: “Artificial intelligence has changed the game in last-mile delivery. It enables us to operate faster, smarter, and more sustainably. From predicting demand to finding the fastest routes through city traffic, artificial intelligence has transformed delivery from a basic service into a personalized experience. In a market where speed is everything, artificial intelligence guarantees that orders reach customers exactly on time and at the right place.

For us, artificial intelligence is not just a tool, it is at the core of our operations. We use it to optimize routes in real time, forecast demand and always have the right fleet available, and personalize the delivery experience for every customer. Our strategy is to always stay one step ahead; ensuring that our technology evolves in sync with the expectations of modern e-commerce.”

“Customers will want to receive their orders almost instantly”

BARQ CCO Mohammed AlMarwani also shared his predictions about the future of the sector. Stating, “The future of last-mile delivery will be fast, green, and intelligent. Customers will want to receive their orders almost instantly and will expect transparency at every step,” AlMarwani added: “At the same time, sustainability will play a much bigger role; electric vehicles, smart hubs, and eco-friendly solutions will become the standard. As BARQ, we aim not only to keep pace with this future but also to be the one shaping it.”

“We can deliver in 15 minutes”

Mohammed AlMarwani shared the following information about BARQ’s fast delivery network: “BARQ’s fast delivery network combines two strengths: powerful in-house technology and a fleet we fully own and operate. Our system intelligently assigns orders to the right driver at the right place at the right time. Our presence in major Saudi cities shortens the distance to the customer. This is how we can deliver reliably in as little as 15 minutes.

Our secret is not a single factor; it is many factors working flawlessly together. Our AI-powered platform ensures real-time order assignment and routing. Our strategically placed fleet keeps us close to customers. Our trained, in-house fleet guarantees accountability and consistency. When you put all this together, delivering within two hours—or even just 15 minutes—becomes not only possible but standard for BARQ.”

Obstacles and challenges in fast delivery in Saudi Arabia

According to the information provided by Mohammed AlMarwani, the obstacles and challenges in fast delivery in Saudi Arabia are as follows: “Saudi Arabia is a unique and dynamic market. On one hand, there are rapidly growing cities with very high demand for speed, and on the other hand, vast distances and infrastructure challenges that make consistency harder to achieve. Add to this the traffic during peak hours and the challenges of scaling fleets, and the picture becomes clear. However, as BARQ, we see these challenges as opportunities; opportunities to invest in smarter systems, develop innovative solutions, and raise the standards of fast delivery…”

About Mohammed Almarwani

Mohammed Almarwani brings a wealth of international experience to his role as Chief Commercial Officer at BARQ, one of Saudi Arabia’s leading technology/logistics companies. Before joining BARQ, Mohammed achieved significant success in his intercontinental career in public relations, brand management, marketing, and high-value commercial negotiations.

Throughout his global career, he designed and implemented strategic initiatives that increased brand awareness, expanded market share, and built profitable partnerships. This diverse background gives him a unique cross-cultural perspective in overcoming challenges; blending storytelling expertise, brand-building competence, and negotiation skills to ensure sustainable business growth. Mohammed’s local and global expertise in technology, logistics, marketing, growth strategies, and investment ecosystems provides valuable insights.

About BARQ

BARQ is a pioneering company providing “bullet delivery” services, setting higher standards in speed, reliability, and customer satisfaction in the logistics sector. It offers delivery within 1–2 hours in a 5 km radius from the pickup point and within 2–4 hours inside the city limits. The company’s goal is to revolutionize the customer experience; ensuring that every merchant receives their orders within two hours with flawless service, continuously expanding our coverage, and offering innovative and reliable delivery solutions.

The company offers a wide range of delivery services tailored to meet the needs of merchants. It ensures that orders are delivered in record time. Thanks to our wide coverage, we can deliver to different regions. Customers can choose the payment method that suits them.

London based delivery technology company HubBox has completed a £6 million funding round as demand for flexible pickup points continues to rise across global ecommerce markets. Led by Puma Growth Partners, the investment will support the company’s international expansion and ongoing software development initiatives.

Founded in 2015, HubBox was created to address the challenges caused by failed home deliveries in ecommerce operations. The company provides software that enables retailers to offer local pickup points during the checkout process. This model has gained strong momentum as consumers seek more predictable delivery experiences and as urban logistics face increasing congestion.

HubBox Works with Thousands of Retailers

Today, HubBox collaborates with thousands of retailers across the United Kingdom, Europe and the United States. Its client portfolio includes major brands such as GAP, Selfridges and Gymshark. Industry analyses indicate that out of home delivery methods, including click and collect and parcel shop pickup, continue to grow at double digit rates each year.

“We Will Focus on Expanding Engineering Teams and Enhancing the Platform”

HubBox CEO Sam Jarvis stated that the company has experienced steady growth in recent years, while retailers increasingly seek more reliable and cost efficient delivery alternatives. Jarvis noted that the company will expand its engineering teams and focus on platform enhancements to meet rapidly rising demand.

Puma Growth Partners emphasised that HubBox’s strong technical capabilities and strategic partnerships with major courier networks played a key role in their investment decision. The firm highlighted that integrating alternative delivery options at checkout remains a significant challenge for retailers and that HubBox has established itself as a leading player in this space.

Competition Intensifies in Last Mile Delivery

The investment comes at a time when global logistics is undergoing rapid transformation. Courier companies are expanding parcel locker networks, while ecommerce platforms are promoting pickup options more heavily to reduce operational pressure during peak seasons. Industry reports indicate that out of home delivery models can reduce failed delivery rates by up to 90 percent and help lower emissions in high traffic urban areas.

With its new investment, HubBox aims to strengthen its role in shaping the future of ecommerce logistics and expand its presence across additional global markets.

Emirates SkyCargo and Abu Dhabi based LODD Autonomous have signed a strategic collaboration to accelerate the development of autonomous drone cargo systems. The agreement signed at the Dubai Airshow represents an important step in the UAE’s logistics transformation and reflects the country’s goal of positioning itself as one of the world’s leading logistics hubs.

Next Generation Cargo Drone: Carries 250 kg, Has a Range of 700 km

The focus of the collaboration will be to validate the use of vertical take-off and landing aircraft across Emirates SkyCargo’s global network. Through feasibility studies, coordination with regulatory authorities and live demonstrations lasting until 2027, the potential for autonomous drones to support regional and international cargo operations will be evaluated. Emirates SkyCargo will also examine the possibility of integrating LODD’s newly tested Hili drone into ground operations at its dual airport hub in Dubai.

Hili, designed and manufactured in Abu Dhabi, is an unmanned hybrid heavy lift drone capable of carrying up to 250 kilograms and reaching a range of 700 kilometers. Its successful test flight has accelerated interest in commercial applications and paved the way for broader adoption of autonomous cargo vehicles.

The Collaboration Strengthens the UAE’s Logistics Vision

Emirates SkyCargo and LODD Autonomous see this collaboration as an opportunity aligned with the UAE’s goal of building a stronger logistics infrastructure. The initiative brings together Emirates SkyCargo’s operational scale with LODD Autonomous’s advanced technologies to increase efficiency, reduce delivery times and expand the reach of cargo services. This process also supports the UAE’s national focus on creating safe, scalable and sustainable supply chain systems.

Emirates SkyCargo is rapidly expanding its innovation agenda with new products and services such as Emirates Courier Express, a door to door delivery service launched to strengthen e-commerce. With its global network covering more than 150 destinations and a fleet of over 260 wide body aircraft, the company aims to be a leader in digital and operational transformation.

The Adoption of Drone Assisted Logistics Applications Will Accelerate

Executives from both companies highlighted the long-term impact of the collaboration. Badr Abbas from Emirates SkyCargo stated that the collaboration reflects their commitment to developing innovative solutions to solve complex transportation challenges and emphasized that autonomous aircraft will play an important role in the new era of logistics.

Rashid Al Manai, CEO of LODD Autonomous, stated that the initiative is fully aligned with the UAE’s vision of integrating advanced technologies into everyday life. He said that this collaboration will accelerate the adoption of drone assisted logistics applications and strengthen the UAE’s global logistics position while maintaining the highest safety and regulatory standards.

This initiative stands out as part of the UAE’s strategy to strengthen its national technology ecosystem from research to development and large-scale deployment. As the testing process progresses, the partnership between Emirates SkyCargo and LODD Autonomous is expected to play an important role in shaping the future of autonomous cargo transportation in the region and beyond.

First Drone Delivery Trial Conducted in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi has launched an ambitious pilot project aimed at revolutionizing the logistics sector with autonomous delivery vehicles. This initiative is being led by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport. The project is carried out in collaboration with Noon, the region’s leading e-commerce platform, and AutoGo, an artificial intelligence platform and subsidiary of K2.

Autonomous Delivery Vehicles Equipped with Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Sensors

The pilot project integrates AutoGo’s autonomous delivery vehicles into Noon’s existing logistics network. It also aims to enhance the efficiency of mini fulfillment centers across Abu Dhabi. This collaboration seeks to reduce congestion, improve operational performance, and contribute to the creation of a more sustainable transportation system. The autonomous delivery vehicles, equipped with artificial intelligence and advanced sensors, are able to navigate urban areas safely and efficiently, delivering orders without human intervention.

Part of Abu Dhabi’s Efforts to Build a Smart Mobility Ecosystem

The integration of autonomous vehicles is part of Abu Dhabi’s efforts to build a smart mobility ecosystem. It also aims to strengthen the emirate’s position as a leader in digital transformation. This project aligns with Abu Dhabi’s comprehensive smart mobility strategy, which targets achieving 25 percent of all trips in the emirate through smart transport by 2040.

A Sustainable Future for E-Commerce Logistics

The introduction of autonomous delivery vehicles marks a significant shift in how e-commerce logistics will operate in the future. By improving the efficiency of last-mile deliveries, the project contributes to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing customer satisfaction. This move combines technology and logistics, marking an important step toward creating a more seamless and sustainable future for e-commerce and smart mobility in Abu Dhabi.

Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director-General of ITC, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating: “This pilot project highlights the effective application of innovative technologies that enhance sustainability and improve the quality of life in the community.”

Khalid: A Critical Step Toward Redefining the Future of E-Commerce Logistics

Following the success of the pilot, AutoGo, Noon, and ITC plan to expand the program to more neighborhoods and offer a wider range of products. Full commercial operations are expected to begin in the near future, setting a new standard in the region’s logistics and e-commerce sectors.

Faraz Khalid, CEO of Noon, expressed excitement about the collaboration, saying: “Our partnership with ITC and AutoGo is a critical step toward redefining the future of e-commerce logistics. This pilot project not only strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a regional leader in smart transport, but also sets a new standard for innovation in the logistics sector.”

This initiative underscores Abu Dhabi’s commitment to sustainable innovation and aims to maintain the emirate’s pioneering position in autonomous delivery vehicle integration and smart mobility.

Abu Dhabi Unveils Its First Licensed Driverless Delivery Pods in Masdar City