DFF and DP World Advance Autonomous Logistics
Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) has partnered with DP World to develop and deploy autonomous logistics solutions across ports, terminals and industrial zones. The collaboration will begin at Jebel Ali Port, with potential expansion across DP World’s international network.
Announced on 6 November 2026, the partnership makes DP World SHIFFT’s first strategic partner, a self-driving logistics joint venture established by DFF in collaboration with UK-based autonomous vehicle technology company Oxa.
The initiative operates under Dubai’s Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Programme. It aims to develop, test and deploy autonomous technologies for logistics and industrial operations.
The collaboration also supports Dubai’s ambition to strengthen its position as a global centre for intelligent logistics and autonomous technology development.
SHIFFT to Develop Autonomous Port Operations
SHIFFT will develop integrated autonomous systems designed for existing and future logistics environments. The initial deployment will focus on operations at Jebel Ali Port.
The project will address several areas of autonomous logistics technology, including:
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Autonomous vehicles: Integrating self-driving capabilities into industrial vehicles and existing equipment.
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Fleet management: Developing systems for vehicle coordination and fleet orchestration.
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Intelligent routing: Improving traffic management, navigation and cargo movement.
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Safety frameworks: Establishing safety standards and assurance systems for autonomous operations.
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Digital twins: Using digital representations to support operational monitoring and optimisation.
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Situational intelligence: Improving visibility and decision-making across complex logistics environments.
Additionally, SHIFFT will develop solutions that work within DP World’s existing technology infrastructure. This approach will support integration with current port operations and future autonomous systems.
DP World currently operates more than 900 vehicles at Jebel Ali Port. These vehicles move containers between terminals and transport cargo between quay cranes, yard stacks and terminal gates.
Meanwhile, the company operates thousands of vehicles across more than 60 ports and terminals worldwide. As a result, the partnership offers opportunities to extend successful deployments beyond Dubai.
DP World Brings Operational Expertise to the Partnership
DP World will contribute its operational experience, infrastructure and capabilities in safety and workforce transformation. The company also intends to use the collaboration to advance autonomous operations within its long-term logistics strategy.
Khalifa Al Qama, Chief of Research, Development and Innovation at Dubai Future Foundation, said the partnership represents an important step towards developing autonomous logistics solutions in Dubai.
He highlighted the importance of combining operational expertise with advanced technologies. He also noted that the solutions could support deployment and expansion into international markets.
Ibrahim Al Najjar, Senior Vice President of Information Technology at DP World GCC, said autonomous technology could improve supply chain reliability and cargo movement.
He also highlighted opportunities for employees to develop skills suited to future logistics operations. The initiative will therefore address workforce development alongside technological advancement.
Paul Newman, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Oxa, said the collaboration aims to transform industrial vehicles into an intelligent autonomous digital workforce. He emphasised improvements in fleet performance and supply chain resilience.
Dubai Expands Its Autonomous Logistics Ecosystem
The partnership builds on Dubai’s wider efforts to develop commercial applications for autonomous technologies. In August 2026, DFF and Oxa established SHIFFT through the Autonomous Logistics Future Lab.
The joint venture focuses on developing, testing and validating autonomous logistics technologies. Furthermore, it aims to turn emerging innovations into commercially deployable solutions.
Its initial development programme covers ports and airports. The partners have also identified a target to launch the first commercial deployment in Dubai before the end of 2027.
The initiative supports the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double Dubai’s foreign trade by 2033.
Meanwhile, DP World’s participation provides an operational environment for testing autonomous technologies under real logistics conditions. This could help establish practical models for future port and terminal operations.
Through SHIFFT, DFF, DP World and Oxa aim to advance autonomous vehicle integration, intelligent fleet management and digital logistics infrastructure. Ultimately, the partnership seeks to improve operational productivity and strengthen Dubai’s position in the global logistics industry.
