Dubai has taken a significant leap toward its ambitious smart mobility goals with the launch of a 15-square-kilometre Self-Driving Transport Zone, unveiled during the Dubai World Congress for Self-Driving Transport 2025.
The zone, spread across Al Jaddaf Metro Station, Dubai Festival City, and Dubai Creek Harbour, represents a fully integrated hub where autonomous land and marine transport systems operate side by side. The initiative highlights Dubai’s strategy to become a global pioneer in self-driving technologies, aligning with the emirate’s vision of making 25% of all trips autonomous by 2030.
Integrated Multi-Mode Transport
The new self-driving district introduces a wide array of autonomous solutions, offering residents and visitors flexible mobility choices based on speed, cost, and convenience. Key features include:
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Dubai Metro connectivity, providing seamless integration with existing public transport.
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A self-driving bus designed for group mobility.
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An autonomous logistics vehicle for goods and cargo.
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A robotic road-cleaning vehicle, supporting sustainability and urban cleanliness.
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An autonomous delivery robot for last-mile services.
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A driverless abra (traditional wooden boat), showcasing the blending of cultural heritage with cutting-edge innovation.
This combination makes Dubai one of the first cities in the world to launch a mixed land-and-marine self-driving ecosystem at scale.
Leadership and Global Recognition
The initiative was reviewed and launched by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, during the inauguration of the fourth edition of the Dubai World Congress for Self-Driving Transport at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
As part of the Congress, Sheikh Ahmed also oversaw the awards ceremony for the Dubai World Challenge for Self-Driving Transport 2025, which offers a prize pool of $3 million.
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First place was awarded to a consortium led by WeRide and Deutsche Bahn, which presented an integrated solution combining a self-driving taxi with a self-driving bus, securing a $900,000 prize.
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Second place went to Zealous Technology from Singapore for a comprehensive solution in autonomous heavy goods transport and last-mile logistics, winning $300,000.
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The remaining $1.8 million from the prize fund will be used to support and scale operations within the new self-driving transport zone.
A Step Toward Dubai’s Future Mobility Vision
The launch of the zone is part of Dubai’s broader commitment to reducing congestion, cutting carbon emissions, and enhancing urban efficiency through next-generation technologies. Officials confirmed that the zone will serve as a real-world testbed for global innovators, offering companies the chance to pilot autonomous mobility solutions in live conditions.
By integrating self-driving buses, taxis, delivery systems, and traditional abras into one ecosystem, Dubai is demonstrating how smart mobility can transform urban living.
This project positions the emirate as a world leader in autonomous transportation, reinforcing its reputation as a city where heritage, innovation, and sustainability meet.
