Passenger-Carrying Drone Trials In Abu Dhabi Signal New Era Of Urban Mobility

Abu Dhabi continues to solidify its position as a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility solutions. The inaugural Abu Dhabi Mobility Week, held from April 24 to May 1, witnessed the first passenger-carrying drone trials in the Middle East.

This milestone was achieved by Multi Level Group (MLG), a pioneering provider of automation and digital transformation solutions, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Mobility. MLG showcased its cutting-edge technology, including two test flights. The first featured a five-seater drone capable of traveling over 25 kilometers and carrying a payload of up to 350 kilograms. The second involved a smaller drone for two passengers, which will be able to travel for up to 35 kilometers for a duration of approximately 20 minutes.

This achievement adds to Abu Dhabi's impressive track record in the smart mobility sector. Abu Dhabi continues to consolidate its position as a global hub for transportation solutions and smart and autonomous vehicles, further bolstered by the Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industries (SAVI) cluster at Masdar City, which contributes to advancing progress and innovation in this field.

محمد حمد الظاهري، عضو مجلس إدارة مجموعة "ملتي ليفل"، يتحدَّث عن أهمية الرحلة التجريبية لطائرة بدون طيار مع راكب، ودورها في الإسهام في تطوير قطاع التنقُّل الجوي، عبر توظيف أحدث التقنيات لدعم تسيير الرحلات الجوية الآمنة بين المدن. pic.twitter.com/VoPG6PEY4t

— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) May 8, 2024

The highlight of the event was the historic first-ever eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) flying event in Al Ain City. The five-seater drone embarked on a record-setting 40-minute flight, covering a remarkable 123 kilometers—the longest recorded drone flight to date. The drone even displayed the UAE's name during its flight, captivating onlookers. MLG showcased a comprehensive lineup of autonomous aerial vehicles (AAVs), including eVTOLs and surveillance drone systems. Attendees witnessed demo flights that emphasized the sophistication and potential of these solutions to revolutionize transportation and logistics.

Mohamed Hamad Al Dhaheri, a board member of MLG, made history by boarding the first fully autonomous intra-city eVTOL demo flight in the Middle East. He described the experience as "exhilarating" and a significant leap forward for the nation. This successful event underscores Abu Dhabi's commitment to shaping the future of mobility through innovation, collaboration, and a vision for a sustainable transportation ecosystem.