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6/30/25, 12:49 PM LODD and 7X conduct first parcel delivery trial by drone in Abu Dhabi
LODD and 7X conduct first parcel delivery trial by drone in Abu

Dhabi

With the support of Abu Dhabi Investment Office

June 26, 2025

The first test flight, conducted in Khalifa City, demonstrated the viability of autonomous aerial parcel delivery. Image Courtesy: ADIO

One of the notable advancements in Abu Dhabi’s logistics sector has been marked by the launch of the first pilot flight for
autonomous drone parcel deliveries. Supported by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), aviation technology firm LODD,
and 7X—an investment holding group in trade, transport, and logistics overseeing EMX—this initiative represents a significant
leap forward in the emirate’s delivery capabilities.

The trial falls under the strategy of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC) that, with ADIO’s support, aims to
develop and adopt smart and integrated mobility solutions in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. Conducted with oversight from the
General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Integrated Transport Centre, the initiative is part of a wider strategy to enable
smart mobility solutions through ADIO’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) cluster. The initiative supports Abu
Dhabi’s efforts to localise production, develop future-ready infrastructure, and reinforce its position as a global hub for innovation
and advanced industries.

Omran Malek, Head of the SAVI Cluster at ADIO, said: “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. 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 first test flight, conducted in Khalifa City, demonstrated the viability of autonomous aerial parcel delivery. A drone
transported a simulated package from a local post office to a designated drop zone using a secure winch-based delivery system.

Humaid Saber Al Hameli, Director of the Aviation Transport Division at the Integrated Transport Centre, said: “Ensuring the
safety and security of our airspace remains a top priority for the Integrated Transport Centre. We continue to advance the
regulatory frameworks necessary to support the safe and effective integration of unmanned aerial systems into Abu Dhabi’s wider
transport ecosystem.

“This pilot trial reflects the strength of collaboration between the public and private sectors, and represents a concrete step toward
the future of smart aerial mobility in the emirate. We are committed to providing a secure and adaptive regulatory environment
that keeps pace with innovation and empowers the adoption of emerging technologies. This enhances Abu Dhabi’s global
competitiveness and reinforces its position as a leading hub for sustainable mobility and future-focused technologies.”

Rashid Al Manai, CEO of LODD, said: “Autonomous drones introduce a transformative layer to urban delivery networks. With
one operator able to manage multiple deliveries simultaneously, the system brings a new level of scalability and responsiveness to
the logistics chain. We’re proud to work with 7X, ADIO, the GCAA, and the Integrated Transport Centre to advance this
technology in the UAE.”

Tariq Al Wahedi, Group CEO of 7X, said: “This milestone reflects our continued commitment to pioneering next-generation
logistics solutions that align with the UAE’s vision 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
capable of meeting the evolving demands of commerce and connectivity.”

LODD and 7X continue to collaborate with regulators and industry partners to refine procedures, ensure regulatory compliance,
and gather operational insights to support wider rollout, highlighting the continued collaboration between private partners and

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