Dubai Approves Regulations for Autonomous Trucks and Launches Digital Logistics Platform

As part of its vision to become a leading global smart mobility hub, Dubai has advanced its efforts by introducing a new regulatory framework for autonomous heavy vehicles used in logistics. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has approved comprehensive rules covering licensing, trial operations, vehicle technology standards, and safety protocols.

This framework, developed in collaboration with private logistics companies, distributors, retailers, and other key stakeholders, aims to enhance efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and support the Dubai Smart Self-Driving Transport Strategy. The strategy targets converting 25% of all trips into autonomous journeys by 2030.

RTA Director General and Chairman Mattar Al Tayer highlighted the significance of this move, stating that it “shows Dubai’s efforts to strengthen its global competitiveness and leverage the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).” He emphasized that the logistics sector, which currently operates over 61,000 heavy vehicles, stands to gain considerably from digital transformation and modernized practices.

The goals set include increasing the logistics sector’s direct economic contribution to AED 16.8 billion, boosting technology adoption by 75%, cutting carbon emissions by 30%, and improving operational efficiencies by 10%.

The rollout of these new regulations will occur in two phases. Initially, the RTA will implement licensing procedures and safety guidelines. This will be followed by pilot autonomous vehicle operations on select routes, such as Jebel Ali Port, Al Maktoum International Airport, Dubai Investments Park, and Ibn Battuta Mall. Some routes will feature safety drivers at first, with the aim of transitioning to fully autonomous operations.

In conjunction with these developments, the RTA has launched Logisty, a digital logistics platform developed in partnership with TruKKer. This platform enables customers to book commercial transport services and manage fleets digitally, promising enhanced reliability and a smarter, more user-friendly logistics system for Dubai.