Latest news with #DubaiAutonomousTransportationStrategy
Time Out Dubai
21-04-2025
- Automotive
- Time Out Dubai
Driverless taxi trial in Dubai 2025: Apollo Go to roll out 50 autonomous cabs
Driverless taxis are set to be introduced to Dubai roads in 2025. Experimental trials of 50 self-driving cabs will be introduced in the coming months in the emirate. The trial, the result of an agreement between the Roads and Transport Authority of Dubai and Chinese autonomous ride-hailing service Apollo Go, will expand to a wider public launch of the service next year. The Apollo Go service has already proved to be a massive success in China, where more than 10 million driverless trips have already been completed. Dubai will see the RT6, the latest generation of driverless taxis, operate on an initial trial basis this year. These vehicles are equipped with 40 sensors and detectors to ensure the highest standards of automation and safety. Plans are already in place to introduce 1,000 self-driving cabs by the Chinese brand in the next three years. Driverless taxis will be introduced in Dubai soon (Credit: Baidu) This latest agreement comes following a similar announcement earlier in April which promised to bring Uber's WeRide platform to the city. Dubai's RTA aims to convert 25 percent of all trips across its public transport services into autonomous services by 2030. Why does Dubai want self-driving taxis? All this futuristic thinking is part of the UAE government's Dubai Autonomous Transportation Strategy, which has outlined why the plans are necessary. The strategy says that, by transforming transport in the country's most populated city, they believe traffic accidents will reduce by 12 per cent and increase productivity by 13 per cent. The RTA says that driverless services will improve road safety as it reduces the risk of human error in traffic accidents and it will allow a wider segment of the community to be served. The UAE believes that the strategy will also bring Dhs22 billion in revenue by reducing transportation costs, raising the productivity of individuals, and saving 'hundreds of millions of hours wasted in conventional transportation'. Autonomous mobility is becoming a reality. RTA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Baidu's autonomous ride-hailing service Apollo Go, a global leader in autonomous transport solutions, to roll out autonomous taxis on a large scale across the emirate. The company will… — RTA (@rta_dubai) April 20, 2025 That rather large figure is a combination of the Dhs900 million predicted savings in transportation costs, Dhs1.5 billion reduction in environmental pollution and a whopping Dhs18 billion in increasing the efficiency of the transportation sector. Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, highlighted the benefits of the self-driving service. He said: 'Self-driving transport has become a reality, with global companies accelerating the development of the necessary technology and software. 'Simultaneously, governments, represented by the relevant authorities, are focusing on licensing autonomous vehicle operations, developing the required infrastructure, and establishing the rules and regulations that govern their use. 'RTA is committed to enhancing Dubai's global leadership in autonomous mobility by trialling various types of autonomous vehicles, air taxis, and marine transport, with the ultimate goal of achieving the objectives of Dubai's Smart Self-Driving Transport Strategy.' In 2024, the RTA completed tests and trials of its self-driving Chevrolet Bolt vehicles in the Jumeirah area of the city but it remains to be seen if these vehicles will be rolled out further. The plan is for Dubai to eventually have 4,000 driverless taxis on its roads, which is believed to ease traffic, cut emissions and lead to fewer accidents. In other Dubai news Dubai's Mall of the Emirates to undergo huge expansion — here's what to expect You're going to see some big changes A second headliner has been announced for the Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix It was written In The Stars Inside Etihad Rail: This is what it's like to travel on UAE's new train Spoiler alert: we're impressed
Arabian Business
31-03-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Dubai welcomes robot delivery service in Sobha Hartland via Yango-ROOTS partnership
Yango Group has partnered with food tech and retail company ROOTS to deploy autonomous robots for grocery deliveries in Dubai's Sobha Hartland district. The service, which launches today, follows Yango Group's acquisition of a licence from Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The robots deliver orders within a two-kilometre radius in under 30 minutes. They navigate using high-precision mapping and neural networks to recognise traffic lights, road signs, and obstacles. Each robot features six driving wheels capable of climbing kerbs up to 10 centimetres high, with a 60-litre cargo compartment that maintains appropriate temperatures for various food items. 'We are excited to provide our community in Sobha Hartland with this innovative delivery option from Yango Group. It's a game changer for local retail delivery, which ultimately benefits everyone by reducing delivery time and supporting sustainability efforts while giving people yet another option to access fresh organic products,' Florian Jansen, Founder of ROOTS said. Customers can place orders through the ROOTS website at and select robot delivery at checkout. 'Dubai is committed to promoting smart mobility solutions that improve urban life and prioritise sustainability. Thus, the introduction of self-driving delivery robots reflects the Authority's vision of building a seamless transportation system based on modern technology, which effectively contributes to reducing congestion and the resulting carbon emissions, and also contributes to improving last-mile logistics services for the benefit of residents and businesses alike,' Ahmed Bahrozyan, Chief Executive Officer of The Public Transport Agency added. When the robot arrives, customers receive a WhatsApp notification to collect their order. The initiative aligns with the Dubai Autonomous Transportation Strategy, which aims to convert 25 percent of transportation to autonomous modes by 2030 and reduce CO₂ emissions by 30 percent. Yango Group plans to expand partnerships with Dubai businesses and recently launched Yango Tech, a B2B AI ecosystem offering business solutions. The platform includes Autonomy, a service aimed at streamlining logistics, reducing operational costs, and enhancing last-mile delivery efficiency. 'We are thrilled to collaborate with our partners and advance autonomous delivery technology in Dubai, offering residents an innovative and seamless way to receive their goods. We look forward to partnering with more local businesses and advancing Dubai's vision to embrace autonomous transportation and sustainability,' Islam Abdul Karim, Regional Head of Yango Group Middle East said.
Tahawul Tech
24-03-2025
- Business
- Tahawul Tech
Yango Group and ROOTS unveil autonomous robots in Dubai
AI-powered last-mile delivery innovation enhances convenience and sustainability Dubai — Yango Group, a global tech company , has partnered with ROOTS, a leading food tech and retail company, to revolutionize last-mile delivery in Dubai. The latest innovation — autonomous delivery robots — has launched officially in Sobha Hartland, offering an eco-friendly and highly efficient solution for grocery deliveries. The state-of-the-art robots, designed to navigate urban landscapes with precision, are equipped with AI-driven navigation systems, advanced neural networks, and high-precision city mapping to seamlessly plan routes, avoid obstacles, and prioritize pedestrian safety. The 60-liter, temperature-controlled cargo compartment ensures that customers receive fresh groceries and meals within 30 minutes, making this a game-changer in the Middle East's evolving smart mobility landscape. Designed to withstand diverse weather conditions, the robots are well-suited for the UAE's climate. Promoting Smart Mobility Dubai is committed to promoting smart mobility solutions that improve urban life and prioritize sustainability. Ahmed Bahrozyan, Chief Executive Officer of The Public Transport Agency, said: 'The introduction of self-driving delivery robots reflects the Authority's vision of building a seamless transportation system based on modern technology, which effectively contributes to reducing congestion and the resulting carbon emissions, and also contributes to improving last-mile logistics services for the benefit of residents and businesses alike.' Redefining convenience Customers can place orders through the ROOTS website ( and opt for robot delivery at checkout. Once the order is prepared, a fully autonomous robot is dispatched to their location. Upon arrival, customers receive a WhatsApp notification to retrieve their delivery. This initiative aligns with the Dubai Autonomous Transportation Strategy, which targets 25% autonomous transportation by 2030 while cutting CO₂ emissions by 30%. . Pioneering innovation Nikita Gavrilov, Regional Head of Yango Tech Autonomy, sees this launch as a bold step forward in urban logistics and technology adoption. 'I enjoy making a difference and bringing new ideas to life. Yango Group, as a global tech company, is committed to localizing its services for the region, ensuring people meet real innovation — quite literally — at their doorstep. Our team has worked hard to make this possible and their support has been crucial in bringing this vision to reality.' Beyond Sobha Hartland, Yango Group is already exploring partnerships across various industries to expand its robotic delivery services. 'We are actively looking for partnerships across different industries and companies to expand our services. The UAE is highly open to innovation, and each Emirate has its own strategy for adopting autonomous solutions,' said Nikita. 'For example, Dubai has the Dubai Autonomous Transport Strategy, which aims to transition 25% of public transportation to autonomous modes by 2030. We believe our robotic delivery service aligns with this vision, and we are open to expanding across the Emirates as we find new partners,' added Nikita. Future of Robotic Logistics Yango Group's AI-powered delivery robots are not limited to grocery deliveries. The modular design and spacious compartment enable the transportation of various parcels, from restaurant orders to small retail items. 'Our robot is designed to autonomously transport different types of parcels. While its primary use is for food deliveries from restaurants and grocery stores, it can also be used for small retail items. We are already in discussions with multiple players in the grocery and retail sectors. Launching robot delivery in a fully accessible community like Sobha Hartland allows residents to experience the technology first-hand, which will help build trust and accelerate collaborations with other partners in the grocery and retail industries,' he added. Yango Tech: Powering the AI-driven future Yango Group has also introduced Yango Tech, an advanced B2B AI ecosystem designed to optimize logistics, reduce operational costs, and enhance last-mile delivery efficiency. From warehousing and mobility solutions to AI-powered autonomy, Yango Tech is shaping the future of urban logistics. Islam Abdul Karim, Regional Head of Yango Group Middle East, said: 'We are thrilled to collaborate with our partners and advance autonomous delivery technology in Dubai, offering residents an innovative and seamless way to receive their goods. We look forward to partnering with more local businesses and advancing Dubai's vision to embrace autonomous transportation and sustainability.' With its latest autonomous delivery service, Yango Group is poised to redefine how businesses adapt to smarter, faster, and greener logistics solutions — one robot at a time. 'We are excited to provide our community in Sobha Hartland with this innovative delivery option from Yango Group. It's a game changer for local retail delivery, which ultimately benefits everyone by reducing delivery time and supporting sustainability efforts while giving people yet another option to access fresh organic products,' said Florian Jansen, Founder of ROOTS.
Zawya
24-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Yango Group and ROOTS to launch autonomous robots in Dubai's Sobha Hartland for more efficient, greener delivery
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Yango Group, a global tech company, has recently partnered with ROOTS, a food tech and retail company, to deploy robots for last-mile delivery of groceries. The autonomous robots are designed to independently plan their routes, maneuver around obstacles, and give way to pedestrians. This service is set to launch today in Sobha Hartland, Dubai, after Yango Group obtained a license from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai to launch and deploy this technology. The RTA is the authority responsible for granting licenses to operate in specific areas of the emirate. The robots deliver orders within a two-kilometre radius in under 30 minutes. They are equipped with a high-precision city map to navigate the area and neural networks to recognize traffic lights, road signs and other objects. A soft suspension with six driving wheels allows the delivery robots to climb curbs up to 10 centimeters high. The capacity of the cargo compartment is 60 liters, allowing it to hold multiple yogurts, milk bottles, fresh fruits, pre-packed salads or meals, all stored under the proper temperature conditions. 'We are excited to provide our community in Sobha Hartland with this innovative delivery option from Yango Group. It's a game changer for local retail delivery, which ultimately benefits everyone by reducing delivery time and supporting sustainability efforts while giving people yet another option to access fresh organic products,' said Florian Jansen, Founder of ROOTS. Using the delivery robots is simple and convenient. Customers can place their orders through the ROOTS website at and select the robot delivery option at checkout. Once the order is prepared, the autonomous robot will be dispatched to the customer's location. Upon the robot's arrival, the customer will receive a notification via WhatsApp to retrieve their order. Designed to navigate diverse weather conditions, the last-mile delivery robots are perfectly suited for the Middle East's unique environment. This initiative also aligns with the Dubai Autonomous Transportation Strategy, which aims to convert 25% of transportation to autonomous modes by 2030, reducing CO₂ emissions by 30%. Ahmed Bahrozyan, the Chief Executive Officer of The Public Transport Agency, said: 'Dubai is committed to promoting smart mobility solutions that improve urban life and prioritize sustainability. Thus, the introduction of self-driving delivery robots reflects the Authority's vision of building a seamless transportation system based on modern technology, which effectively contributes to reducing congestion and the resulting carbon emissions, and also contributes to improving last-mile logistics services for the benefit of residents and businesses alike." Islam Abdul Karim, Regional Head of Yango Group Middle East, said: 'We are thrilled to collaborate with our partners and advance autonomous delivery technology in Dubai, offering residents an innovative and seamless way to receive their goods. We look forward to partnering with more local businesses and advancing Dubai's vision to embrace autonomous transportation and sustainability. ' Moving forward, Yango Group plans to expand its partnerships with businesses in Dubai. The company recently launched Yango Tech, a B2B AI ecosystem serving as a one-stop hub for innovative business solutions. Yango Tech offers a comprehensive range of AI-powered tools and services, including Autonomy, which is set to streamline logistics, reduce operational costs, and enhance last-mile delivery efficiency. About Yango Tech Yango Tech, a part of global tech company Yango Group, is a unified ecosystem delivering advanced B2B technology solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of modern businesses. The company offers an integrated suite of tools, spanning warehousing, mobility, retail, and beyond, designed to help businesses streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive sustainable growth. By leveraging cutting-edge AI-powered innovations, Yango Tech empowers companies to stay competitive and thrive in an increasingly digital world. About ROOTS ROOTS is a food retail brand dedicated to providing natural, fresh, minimally processed, and carefully selected products. The concept is based on customer feedback, taking into account all the comments in regard of service, assortment, and quality. The company's mission is to make clean-label food accessible to everyone. Its stores prioritize fresh, locally sourced offerings, empowering customers to eat healthy, and feel deeply connected to their community. *Source: AETOSWire Media Contact: Anu Bhatnagar Email: media@
Hi Dubai
17-03-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Can a City Have a Personality? If Dubai Were a Person, Who Would It Be?
We often speak of cities as if they were people. New York is a relentless hustler, never sleeping, always chasing the next big opportunity. Paris is effortlessly romantic, whispering poetry in the language of art and love. Tokyo is disciplined, efficient, and technologically advanced, embodying precision and order. But why do we do this? Cities, much like people, develop distinct personalities over time. Their history, culture, economy, and way of life shape the way we perceive them. Some are warm and welcoming, others are fast-paced and unforgiving. A city's skyline, the energy in its streets, and even the way its residents interact can reflect characteristics we commonly attribute to humans. And then there's Dubai—a city unlike any other. Dubai defies conventional descriptions. It is bold and ambitious, unafraid to dream big and turn those dreams into reality. It is wealthy and extravagant, a place where gold can be bought from vending machines and where the world's tallest building stands as a testament to its limitless aspirations. Yet, it is also deeply rooted in tradition, holding onto its Emirati heritage while embracing a global identity. If Dubai were a person, what kind of person would it be? Would it be a billionaire tech mogul, always pushing the boundaries of innovation? A global influencer, known for luxury and status? Or a visionary leader, blending deep-rooted traditions with forward-thinking progress? In this article, we will explore Dubai's personality by examining its ambition, cultural contrasts, and identity as a futuristic metropolis. Through this lens, we can discover what truly makes Dubai tick and how it would translate into human form. Dubai's Personality Traits: Breaking It Down Dubai's evolution from a modest desert settlement to a global metropolis is a testament to its multifaceted personality. By examining its key characteristics, we can envision the type of person Dubai might embody. Ambitious & Visionary – The Unstoppable Dreamer Dubai's transformation over the past few decades showcases unparalleled ambition. Under the leadership of figures like Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the city has pursued a vision encapsulated by his assertion: "In the race for excellence, there is no finish line." This relentless drive is evident in the nation's economic growth; the UAE's GDP surged from approximately $84.42 billion in 1999 to over $504.17 billion in 2023, reflecting its unwavering ambition. Ultra-Modern & Tech-Savvy – The Futuristic Innovator Embracing cutting-edge technology, Dubai has positioned itself as a leader in smart city initiatives. The Dubai Autonomous Transportation Strategy aims to convert 25% of all transportation to autonomous modes by 2030, incorporating AI-driven urban planning and advanced mobility solutions. Innovations like the proposed 'Dubai Loop' project, a 17-kilometer underground tunnel network designed to transport passengers at speeds up to 160 km/h, further underscore the city's commitment to futuristic infrastructure. Glamorous & Extravagant – The High-Flying Socialite Dubai's reputation for luxury is globally recognized. Landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa—the world's tallest building—and opulent seven-star hotels epitomize its extravagant persona. In 2023, Dubai welcomed approximately 14.36 million international tourists, highlighting its allure as a premier luxury destination. Business-Minded & Opportunistic – The Hustler Strategically located and business-friendly, Dubai has become a magnet for entrepreneurs and multinational corporations. The city's infrastructure and regulatory environment have fostered a thriving business ecosystem, attracting over 30,000 international companies. Cultural Chameleon – The Global Citizen Dubai's population is a mosaic of over 200 nationalities, making it one of the most cosmopolitan cities worldwide. This diversity is reflected in its cultural landscape, where traditional Emirati customs coexist with global influences, creating a unique blend of heritage and modernity. Resilient & Adaptable – The Survivor Facing challenges such as economic downturns and a reliance on oil revenues, Dubai has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Notably, oil now contributes to only about 1% of its GDP, showcasing the city's successful diversification into sectors like tourism, finance, and technology. In essence, if Dubai were personified, it would embody an ambitious visionary, a tech-savvy innovator, a glamorous socialite, a shrewd businessperson, a global citizen, and a resilient survivor—all traits that have propelled the city to its current stature on the world stage. If Dubai Were a Person, Who Would It Be? Envisioning Dubai as a person involves synthesizing its defining characteristics into a singular persona. Drawing parallels with notable figures can provide a clearer understanding of this metaphorical individual. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum: The Ambitious Leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai and Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, embodies visionary leadership that has been instrumental in Dubai's rapid development. Born in 1949, Sheikh Mohammed ascended to leadership positions, including Minister of Defence in 1971, before becoming the Ruler of Dubai in 2006. His strategic initiatives have transformed Dubai into a global hub for trade, tourism, and innovation, reflecting a blend of tradition and progress. Elon Musk: The Visionary Innovator Elon Musk epitomizes relentless innovation and ambition, qualities that resonate with Dubai's transformative journey. Born in Pretoria, South Africa, in 1971, Musk's ventures—such as SpaceX and Tesla—have consistently pushed technological boundaries. His net worth, which surpassed $400 billion in 2024, underscores his significant impact on global industries. Musk's endeavors in sustainable energy, space exploration, and artificial intelligence mirror Dubai's commitment to futuristic projects and technological advancement. Richard Branson: The Charismatic Entrepreneur Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, exemplifies a business-minded individual with global appeal. His ventures span various industries, from music to space tourism, showcasing a flair for combining business acumen with adventurous pursuits. Branson's charismatic persona and willingness to embrace high-risk, high-reward opportunities align with Dubai's reputation for luxury, innovation, and resilience. A Modern-Day Pharaoh: The Visionary Ruler Historically, pharaohs were seen as god-kings, wielding immense power and overseeing monumental architectural achievements. Similarly, Dubai's leadership has orchestrated the creation of iconic structures like the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah, symbolizing ambition and strategic foresight. This comparison underscores Dubai's blend of authority, wealth, and visionary urban planning. In synthesizing these comparisons, if Dubai were personified, it would embody the ambition of Elon Musk, the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the entrepreneurial spirit of Richard Branson, and the grandeur of a modern-day pharaoh. This composite persona reflects a city characterized by relentless innovation, strategic vision, global influence, and monumental achievements. Why This Matters: The Psychology of Identifying with a City Personifying cities—attributing human characteristics to them—is a common psychological mechanism that helps individuals forge emotional connections with places. This practice allows people to relate to cities on a personal level, making urban environments more relatable and engaging. The Psychology Behind Personifying Cities By assigning human traits to cities, individuals can better understand and relate to the complex environments around them. This personification facilitates a deeper emotional bond, enhancing one's sense of belonging and attachment to a place. Such connections can influence behaviors, including the desire to visit, invest in, or reside in a particular city. Dubai's Image as a "Brand" Dubai has meticulously crafted a strong city brand, positioning itself as a beacon of luxury, innovation, and cultural diversity. This branding strategy has been instrumental in transforming Dubai from a modest coastal village into a leading global city, attracting significant foreign direct investment, tourism, and human capital. The city's brand strength is reflected in various global rankings. For instance, Resonance's 2023 World's Best Cities Report ranks Dubai 6th globally, highlighting its prosperity and appeal. Similarly, Brand Finance's City Index 2023 positions Dubai 9th, noting its strong and stable economy and future growth potential. Impact on Tourism and Investment A city's perceived personality significantly influences global perceptions, affecting decisions related to tourism, investment, and residency. Dubai's image as a luxurious and forward-thinking metropolis has made it an attractive destination for international visitors and investors alike. Tourism: In 2024, Dubai welcomed 18.72 million international visitors, surpassing previous records. Notably, 296,000 Australians visited Dubai that year, marking a 6% increase from the previous year. This surge is attributed to Dubai's diverse offerings beyond opulence, such as desert safaris, water sports, and historical sites like the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Investment: Dubai's robust city branding has also spurred significant foreign direct investment. The property market, for example, has experienced remarkable growth, with residential sales reaching AED 120 billion (approximately $32.7 billion) in the third quarter of 2024. This boom is driven by increased demand from global investors, particularly from Europe and North America, and initiatives like the Golden Visa program that encourage long-term residency. In summary, personifying cities enables individuals to establish emotional connections, influencing perceptions and behaviors. Dubai's strategic branding as a luxurious, innovative, and culturally rich city has significantly enhanced its global appeal, leading to substantial growth in the tourism and investment sectors. If Dubai were a person, it would be an unstoppable mogul—ambitious, ultra-modern, and resilient. A visionary leader who builds the future while honoring the past. A risk-taker who thrives on high-stakes innovation, yet never forgets the cultural roots that shaped its identity. It would be the kind of person who commands attention in any room, not just for their wealth or power but for their ability to redefine possibilities. Dubai is a paradox that works—where tradition meets ambition, where the desert meets the clouds, where resilience meets extravagance. It is a city that never settles, constantly reinventing itself, pushing beyond limits, and setting new global benchmarks. But if cities have personalities, then they must also evoke emotions. Some cities challenge you, some comfort you, and some inspire you. And just like with people, everyone connects differently. So, if cities are like people, where do you feel at home? Also read: The Greenest Desert in the World: How Dubai is Building Nature Where There Was None Dubai is transforming its desert into a green oasis with bold sustainability projects, proving that nature can thrive even in the harshest climates. The Science Behind Dubai's Rainfall Projects: Can We Control the Weather? Discover how Dubai's cloud seeding projects are increasing rainfall and cooling the climate. Explore the science behind weather modification and the future of rain enhancement. A Guide to Living Car-Free in Dubai Dubai is becoming more car-free friendly with efficient public transport, smart mobility, and walkable spaces—explore a new way of getting around! Everything You Should Know About Dubai's Green Spine Initiative Dubai's Green Spine sets a global standard for sustainable urban development, blending cutting-edge technology, green infrastructure, and community living.
