Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai launched a new program to develop drone transportation systems in the emirate.
The initiative will promote the development and adoption of cutting-edge technologies as part of plans to strengthen Dubai’s global competitiveness in vital sectors.
Sheikh Hamdan said: “The Dubai Program to Enable Drone Transportation will create an advanced infrastructure that enables innovators and relevant entities to test prototypes of unmanned aerial vehicles in designated areas and develop legislation that optimizes their implementation.
“The program aims to provide new economic opportunities and consolidate Dubai’s leadership in advanced technology research and development across diverse future-oriented sectors.”
He added: “Our projects place quality of life at the top of their priorities. We will continue to develop and implement innovative ideas on the ground. We have the right environment, infrastructure, and legislation for the use of drones. We also have the laboratories, expertise, and talent to translate prototypes into viable solutions.”
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed between several government and private sector entities to initiate the program’s operations. Signatories included DFF, DCAA, Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA), Fakeeh University Hospital, Majid Al Futtaim, and Emirates SkyCargo.
The primary objective of the program is to explore the use of drones in several sectors including health, security, shipping and food as well as reducing carbon emissions generated by traditional shipping and transportation methods.
It also aims to attract talent as well as local and foreign investments to the drone applications sector, in addition to creating new jobs and stimulating economic activity in relevant fields.
DFF will oversee the implementation of the output of the initiative through Dubai Future Labs, the first applied R&D lab in the region specializing in future technology.
A pilot area will be allocated in Dubai Silicon Oasis for innovators and related entities from the UAE and abroad to develop and test new drone solutions.
Participants of the program will benefit from an enabling legislative framework that facilitates drone technology prototyping, testing, development, and implementation, a statement said.
Drone technology is one of the priority sectors of the UAE’s national strategies. The country has rolled out various initiatives to support its development, starting with the UAE Drones for Good Award that has attracted more than 1,800 participants from across the globe to date.
In July 2020, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum issued a law regulating the use of drones in Dubai following the highest international standards and best practices.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, president of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), chairman of Dubai Airports and chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline and Group, said: “We aim to make innovation a way of life, a modus operandi and a competitive advantage that will enhance the sustainability of the UAE and Dubai’s global status.”
Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, director-general and chairman of the Roads and Transport Authority said the MoU will boost trials of autonomous air vehicles and self-driving transport.
“Self-driving transport has become a reality. International firms are moving faster in developing technologies and software of autonomous vehicles.”
Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, vice chairman and CEO of Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority, said: “Dubai Silicon Oasis will provide the piloting zone for the program’s innovative applications. The unprecedented program will shape a more efficient and sustainable smart logistical services industry for future smart societies… DSO is keen on being an open lab for the latest innovations and developments, positioning Dubai as a preferred city to live and work.”
Nabil Sultan, Emirates divisional senior vice president, cargo, added: “Innovation is a core part of the Emirates DNA and we are constantly evaluating technologies that can make supply chains more efficient and resilient. There is potential in the usage of drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles for last-mile transportation and delivery of essential commodities and other cargo such as e-commerce.
“The setting up of the pilot area in Dubai for delivery by drones will facilitate advancement in the test and use case development of this technology not only in the UAE but also in other parts of the world, opening up markets for new investment and economic opportunities.”
Alain Bejjani, CEO, Majid Al Futtaim, said: “There is no doubt that the use of drone technology has great potential for all industries. Drone delivery operations can be faster, safer, more cost-effective, and environmentally friendly.”
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by The Technology Express staff and is published from a syndicated feed)
