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Watch: Abu Dhabi conducts test flight of drone-based delivery

According to the authorities, once operational, the UAVs will be able to offer parcel delivery services at a “fraction of the cost” of conventional applications.

By: Express Web Desk
Updated: September 19, 2025 07:24 PM IST

3 min read

Watch: Abu Dhabi conducts test flight of drone-based delivery

Abu Dhabi aim to roll out commercial operations by mid-2026. (Photo: Abu Dhabi Mobility)

With an aim to make logistics operations smarter and faster, Abu Dhabi on Friday conducted a trial flight of drone-based delivery. The test flight was conducted from Al Samha to Khalifa Industrial Zone by Abu Dhabi Mobility in collaboration with LODD Autonomous, a company specialising in autonomous aerial logistics.

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For the trial flight, the drone, which is equipped with a robotic arm, transported the package and used an advanced navigation system designed to ensure precision and efficiency.

Abu Dhabi have been carrying out tests of drone-based delivery since June this year. (Photo: Unsplash)

Drones will reduce delivery cost

Authorities in Abu Dhabi have been carrying out extensive tests of drone-based delivery since June this year and aim to roll out commercial operations by mid-2026. According to the authorities, once operational, the UAVs will be able to offer parcel delivery services at a “fraction of the cost” of conventional applications.

“The initiative supports Abu Dhabi’s vision for smart mobility and sustainable logistics, while enabling drone operations through the national platform and strengthening the Emirate’s status as a global hub for innovation and advanced infrastructure,” Abu Dhabi Mobility, said in a social media post.

“This trial reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to adopting global innovations in transport and logistics, and to using technology to raise the quality of services,” said Abdullah Hamad Al Ghafli, acting director general of the Integrated Transport Centre.

New cargo drone tested

According to Gulf News, alongside the trial, Load Autonomous Friday also showcased its development of “Heli,” a hybrid vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) cargo drone capable of carrying up to 250 kilograms over a range of 300 kilometres.

The drone can operate without conventional airport infrastructure and is touted to reshape medium-range cargo transport across the region.

“The use of drones in logistics helps accelerate delivery times, meeting the growing demands of e-commerce and modern supply chains. What used to take days with traditional delivery methods can now be achieved in just hours,” Rashid Matar Al Manai, CEO of Load Autonomous, said.

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