Integrated Transport Centre Oversees Drone Delivery Test Flight in Abu Dhabi

(MENAFN- ITC Media) Abu Dhabi on Friday, September 19, 2025– The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, announced that it had overseen a pioneering trial for parcel delivery using unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) in Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with “LODD Autonomous”, a company specialising in smart delivery solutions and autonomous aerial logistics technologies.
Dr Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, visited the company’s headquarters in KIZAD – Abu Dhabi, where he was briefed on the latest smart mobility solutions and witnessed a successful test flight. During the trial, a drone equipped with a robotic arm transported a parcel from Al Samha to KIZAD, relying on an advanced navigation system that ensured high levels of accuracy and efficiency in delivery operations.
As part of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council’s (SASC) strategy to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading hub for smart mobility, this trial builds on the ITC’s efforts to adopt advanced transport systems that enhance service efficiency, enable sustainable infrastructure and improve quality of life across the emirate. ITC also regulates and manages drone operations through the Unified National Platform for “Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)”, ensuring faster approvals and compliance with laws, safety standards, privacy requirements, and airspace protection.
Dr AlGhfeli praised the success of the trial, stating: “The use of drones for delivery reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to adopting the latest global innovations in transport and logistics, and to harnessing technology to improve service quality. At the Integrated Transport Centre, we are keen to support pioneering initiatives of this kind, which contribute to building a smart and sustainable transport ecosystem and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global destination.”
“LODD Autonomous” also presented Dr AlGhfeli with the latest updates on its hybrid autonomous aircraft development programme, “Hili” (VTOL), designed for heavy air cargo. The aircraft can carry loads of up to 250 kilograms over distances of 300 kilometres, powered by an innovative system combining electric motors with an internal combustion engine. With vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capability, it can operate without the need for conventional infrastructure such as airports. The “Hili” is expected to represent a breakthrough in medium-range air cargo by linking logistics hubs together, enhancing supply chain efficiency, and supporting the growth of the logistics sector in the region.
For his part, Rashed Matar Al Manai, CEO of LODD Autonomous, stated: “The drone-based delivery system improves the efficiency and speed of transport and distribution services, addressing the needs of supply chains and logistics amid rapid e-commerce growth and the drive for faster, more effective solutions. With drones, parcels can be delivered within just a few hours, rather than the several days required by traditional methods.”
This trial is part of a comprehensive strategic plan to expand the use of drones in Abu Dhabi and consolidate their role in shaping the future of logistics and smart mobility, opening new horizons for advanced delivery networks.

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