Dubai’s Vision for Self-Driving Transport: The 2027 Challenge
Introduction to the 2027 Challenge
Mattar Al Tayer, the Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), recently unveiled plans for the fifth edition of the Dubai World Challenge for Self-Driving Transport, set for 2027. This iteration will center around the theme of Smart Integrated Infrastructure, aiming to revolutionize urban mobility.
Focus on Integration and Innovation
The upcoming competition invites companies to develop innovative systems that seamlessly integrate sensors, connectivity, and data analytics. The goal is to enhance the efficiency, sustainability, and overall performance of urban and public services. This focus on smart infrastructure is crucial as cities worldwide strive to adapt to growing populations and increasing mobility demands.
Highlights from the Dubai World Congress
The announcement was made during the Dubai World Congress for Self-Driving Transport 2025, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre. This event attracted over 3,000 participants and featured more than 80 speakers, including industry leaders, experts, and technology developers. The congress served as a platform for sharing insights and discussing advancements in autonomous transport.
During the event, RTA signed four significant agreements with key players such as Emaar Properties and Al-Futtaim Group, along with the winners of the 2025 challenge—WeRide and Deutsche Bahn consortium, and Zelos Technology. These agreements will facilitate the showcasing and testing of self-driving technologies at various locations, including Festival City and Creek Harbour.
Dubai’s Ambitious Vision
Al Tayer emphasized that these agreements align with Dubai’s ambition to be recognized as the world’s smartest city and a global testing ground for future mobility technologies. He stated, “Investment in self-driving transport is a key pillar of digital transformation,” highlighting its role in improving quality of life, enhancing road safety, and reducing dependence on private vehicles.
Upcoming Events and Themes
Under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the fourth edition of the Dubai World Congress and Challenge for Self-Driving Transport will kick off on September 24 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. This year’s slogan, “Redefining Mobility… The Path to Autonomy,” reflects the ongoing evolution in transport technology.
The event will also honor the winners of the previous challenge, which focused on creating a model district that integrates various modes of transport. This initiative aims to provide residents with diverse mobility options while ensuring high-quality service, ultimately contributing to a world-class urban model for self-driving mobility.
A Milestone for Smart Mobility
Al Tayer welcomed participants and delegates, expressing his hopes for a productive experience in the UAE. He noted that hosting this congress marks a pivotal moment in Dubai’s journey toward leading the future of smart mobility. The event underscores the city’s commitment to innovation in the transport sector.
He further stated, “This global event reflects the vision of the wise leadership to position Dubai as the world’s smartest city and to bolster the sustainability of its mobility ecosystem.” This vision is part of RTA’s broader strategy to transform 25% of all journeys in Dubai into self-driving trips by 2030.
Attracting Global Talent and Ideas
Through the congress and challenge, RTA aims to attract leading global companies, universities, and specialized research institutions focused on autonomous mobility. The goal is to foster innovative solutions that will advance Dubai’s transport systems, emphasizing advanced technologies, reduced operational costs, and enhanced road safety.
The two-day congress is expected to draw more than 3,000 international participants and will feature over 45 workshops and seminars. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from more than 80 speakers, including senior officials, researchers, and developers who are at the forefront of self-driving transport technology.
Notable Speakers and Insights
Among the distinguished keynote speakers is Saeed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA). Another prominent figure, Sol Rashidi, the world’s first Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer, will deliver the keynote address during the opening session.
Other notable speakers include Dr. Steven Shladover, an expert in self-driving transport technologies with over 40 years of experience, and Augustin Friedel, an Associate Partner at MHP—a Porsche company—who specializes in data analytics and mobility services. Daan Roosegaarde, a renowned innovator and member of NASA’s Innovation Team, will also share his insights.
The congress promises to be a significant event for anyone interested in the future of transport, showcasing the latest innovations and encouraging knowledge exchange among industry leaders and decision-makers.
