Dubai: Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has approved a comprehensive regulatory framework for the operation of autonomous heavy vehicles for logistics transport within the Emirate of Dubai. The framework establishes regulatory standards, including licensing procedures, assessment of operational trials, technology requirements for the vehicles, and conditions to ensure the safety of road users and drivers.
According to Emirates News Agency, this initiative marks a pioneering step towards autonomous mobility in Dubai. Developed in collaboration with strategic partners, private companies, distributors, and retailers in the logistics transport sector, the framework underlines Dubai’s commitment to enhancing its global competitiveness as a hub for business and economy. Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, highlighted that the framework supports the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and aligns with the Smart Self-Driving Transport Strategy targeting 25% of mobility journeys as autonomous by 2030.
The framework is pivotal in leveraging autonomous driving technologies to boost operational efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and improve road safety within the logistics transport sector, which boasts a fleet of 61,290 heavy vehicles ranging from 3.5 tonnes to 65 tonnes. As part of the Dubai Commercial and Logistics Land Transport Strategy 2030, the framework seeks to double the sector’s economic contribution to AED16.8 billion, increase technology adoption by 75%, and cut carbon emissions by 30%.
Dubai’s readiness for autonomous transport is supported by its advanced infrastructure, international standard adoption, and state-of-the-art communication networks. The initial trials of future mobility solutions will involve participation from local and global firms, further enhancing the sector’s competitiveness.
The framework’s development involved two phases: defining key pillars and directions for compliance, sustainability, and investor attraction, and setting standards for licensing autonomous heavy vehicles. The second phase identified five initial routes for the pilot stage, including Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum International Airport, with monitoring and specific routes designated for driverless operations.
Aligned with six specialized strategies of the emirate, including the Traffic Safety and Zero-Emission Public Transport Strategies, the comprehensive framework encompasses 17 projects to bolster sector growth. RTA, in collaboration with TruKKer, has also launched the ‘Logisty’ digital logistics platform to enhance commercial transport services, fleet management, and on-demand booking, strengthening Dubai’s position as a logistics hub.