Abu Dhabi has successfully conducted another milestone trial in drone-based logistics, with a drone flight from Al Samha to Khalifa Industrial Zone.
The trial was carried out by Abu Dhabi Mobility in partnership with aviation technology company LODD Autonomous. The drone used for the mission was fitted with an advanced navigation system and a robotic arm, designed to ensure safe and precise deliveries.
This development comes less than three months after a separate successful drone delivery in Khalifa City. During that earlier trial, a parcel was transported from a local post office to a designated drop zone using a winch-based system. That operation was supported by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) and conducted jointly by LODD and logistics holding group 7X.
According to LODD’s chief executive, the company is set to launch parcel and cargo delivery services using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by the second half of 2026. The services, he added, will be offered at a “fraction of the cost” compared to traditional delivery methods, significantly improving efficiency for businesses and consumers.
The recent trial underscores Abu Dhabi’s growing ambition to integrate drone logistics into its mobility framework. Officials said the tests highlight not only the reliability of UAVs but also their potential role in reshaping supply chains and reducing delivery times across the UAE.
Meanwhile, Dubai has already advanced its drone delivery ecosystem. In October 2024, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) awarded the first commercial licence to Keeta Drone, which launched a fleet of six UAVs to deliver medicines and parcels in Dubai Silicon Oasis.
To support this growing demand, Dubai-based manufacturer EANAN has established the UAE’s first factory for drone production dedicated to commercial use. The facility is expected to accelerate the shift from international sourcing to fully local manufacturing, positioning the country as a global exporter of tailored drone solutions.
Industry experts believe these steps strengthen the UAE’s ambition to become a world leader in smart aviation. As more trials take place, both Abu Dhabi and Dubai are setting the foundation for a robust drone delivery ecosystem that could soon serve residents, industries, and international markets alike.