Abu Dhabi has issued its first licence for autonomous delivery vehicles, kicking off a smart mobility pilot in Masdar City with plans for wider rollout.
ABU DHABI: In a move that accelerates the future of smart logistics, Abu Dhabi has issued its first official licence plate for a self-driving delivery vehicle, launching a pilot programme in Masdar City that marks a significant milestone for autonomous transport in the region.
The initiative is led by the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) under the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). Key partners include K2, developer of the vehicle through its subsidiary Autogo, and EMX, the logistics arm of 7X.
The pilot programme introduces autonomous vehicles powered by advanced AI, capable of navigating urban areas and making last-mile deliveries without human intervention. It represents a key step in Abu Dhabi’s goal of transforming mobility — with 25% of all trips expected to use smart transport solutions by 2040.
Dr Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of Abu Dhabi Mobility, stated: “This pilot is more than just a tech trial. It’s part of a larger vision to build a smart, sustainable, and efficient transport system that improves quality of life and reduces emissions.”
The project also aligns with Abu Dhabi’s regulatory and innovation strategy, setting a framework for broader deployment of autonomous vehicles across the emirate. Following Masdar City trials, Autogo plans to expand operations into wider urban zones in collaboration with additional partners.
Tariq Al Wahedi, Group CEO of 7X, added: “Integrating these vehicles into Abu Dhabi’s logistics ecosystem makes delivery faster, safer, and greener — a true leap toward next-gen mobility.”
This initiative also supports the growth of the SAVI cluster, aimed at localising smart vehicle production and infrastructure within the UAE.
