Photo Credit: WAM
Abu Dhabi is making significant advancements in freight transport with the launch of its first pilot operation featuring autonomous trucks, facilitated by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) in a dedicated industrial logistics zone.
This initiative is spearheaded by the ITC, part of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, in collaboration with Autotech, a global leader in autonomous vehicle technology, and AD Ports Group. Currently, the pilot program is taking place within the Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD).
Trailblazing Transport in the MENA Region
This endeavor stands out as the inaugural operation of autonomous trucks for logistics and freight transport in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). It exemplifies Abu Dhabi’s broader aspiration to incorporate advanced autonomous technologies across diverse transportation modalities.
The primary focus of this pilot project is to evaluate and refine autonomous truck functionalities in a regulated industrial and logistics context. Test runs are being conducted on specific routes within KEZAD, adhering to established regulatory frameworks and operational protocols.
Customizing AI for Local Needs
Throughout 2025, the technology firm has partnered with the ITC to modify artificial intelligence-driven driving systems, ensuring they align with local road conditions and logistical demands.
The goal is to ascertain that these autonomous trucks can operate securely and effectively under real-world industrial environments. Authorities are carefully reviewing the technology’s performance to determine its readiness for broader adoption while ensuring stringent safety and operational standards.
Officials have emphasized that this evaluation phase is crucial to assessing the future viability of commercially scaled autonomous logistics services.
Enhancing Smart Mobility in Abu Dhabi
This project is a vital part of Abu Dhabi’s ambition to expand its smart and autonomous mobility ecosystem. It aligns with ongoing efforts to update regulatory frameworks and enhance infrastructure to support cutting-edge transportation solutions.
The initiative aims to improve freight transport efficiency within economic and industrial zones, which is expected to bolster supply chain effectiveness and operational productivity.
Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, the Acting Director-General of the ITC, highlighted that this initiative is integral to advancing the transport ecosystem and strengthening Abu Dhabi’s competitive standing.
“These projects enhance transport system efficiency, support economic sector competitiveness, and reinforce Abu Dhabi’s role as a leading regional hub for smart mobility and autonomous technologies, in line with the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031,” he stated.
Setting the Stage for Commercial Launch
Officials have noted that this pilot program is also part of longer-term planning for the commercial deployment of autonomous logistics services.
As the global supply chain landscape evolves, there’s a growing demand for quick, safe, and cost-effective freight solutions. Autonomous trucking is emerging as an essential element of next-generation transportation systems.
With this pilot, Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a leader in innovative logistics within the region, paving the way for the broader adoption of autonomous freight technologies in the coming years.
