H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), has officially launched the Middle East’s first-of-its-kind drone delivery system at Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO). DSO serves as a hub for innovation and knowledge, operating under the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ).

The launch ceremony was attended by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline and Group, and Chairman of DIEZ.

During the event, Sheikh Hamdan placed the inaugural order via the drone delivery system from the Rochester Institute of Technology-Dubai (RIT-Dubai), one of the designated drone landing points within DSO’s delivery network. The order was successfully transported from a take-off point within the same community, showcasing the efficiency of the system.

Advancing Smart Logistics and Innovation

Sheikh Hamdan emphasized Dubai’s commitment to building advanced infrastructure and fostering an innovative ecosystem to enhance smart logistics and cutting-edge air transport solutions. This initiative aligns with the vision of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, to position Dubai as a global leader in future-ready cities.

He stated, “We continue to support projects that drive a diversified, flexible digital economy by leveraging advanced technology in Dubai and empowering the aviation and air transport sectors. Our strategy places a high priority on strengthening public-private partnerships to catalyze research and development (R&D), sustainable growth, and smart mobility. This aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position Dubai among the world’s top three urban economies.”

This groundbreaking project marks a significant step toward realizing Dubai’s vision of embracing next-generation transport technologies while supporting the city’s economic and technological advancement strategies.