Abu Dhabi has successfully completed its first pilot flight for autonomous drone parcel deliveries, marking a significant step in the emirate’s efforts to modernize its logistics infrastructure and advance smart mobility.

The trial took place in Khalifa City, where a drone delivered a simulated package from a local post office to a designated drop zone using a winch-based system.

The initiative was led by aviation technology company LODD, in partnership with 7X, the parent company of logistics provider EMX, and supported by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO).

The pilot is part of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council’s strategy to develop and integrate advanced mobility solutions across the capital, with regulatory oversight provided by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC).

“ADIO is proud to champion the development and rollout of cutting-edge logistics technologies that strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global innovation hub,” said Omran Malek, Head of the Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industries (SAVI) Cluster at ADIO. “This pilot is a powerful example of the kind of local partnerships and forward-thinking strategies that drive long-term economic and infrastructure value for the emirate.”

The pilot program marks the first phase of a broader plan to deploy drone-based delivery services across Abu Dhabi. LODD and 7X are working closely with regulators and industry partners to refine operations, ensure compliance, and gather data to support future rollouts.

Rashid Al Manai, CEO of LODD, highlighted the operational efficiency that drone logistics can bring. “Autonomous drones introduce a transformative layer to urban delivery networks. With one operator able to manage multiple deliveries simultaneously,” he said.

The SAVI cluster, overseen by ADIO, is central to Abu Dhabi’s broader effort to localize advanced technology production, develop supporting infrastructure, and position the emirate as a global hub for innovation and smart industries.

Tariq Al Wahedi, Group CEO of 7X, said the project aligns with national goals for smart mobility. “By integrating autonomous aerial technology into EMX’s national logistics ecosystem, we are enhancing operational reach and speed, and building a more adaptive, future-ready network.”