Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum uses the drone delivery service. DUBAI MEDIA OFFICE

Dubai has once again positioned itself at the forefront of innovation, as Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, placed the first order using Dubai's Keeta Drone delivery service. The groundbreaking event took place on Tuesday (December 17) at Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), marking the official launch of the Middle East's first drone delivery network. Sheikh Hamdan’s order was delivered from one of the network’s take-off points to a designated landing spot at the Rochester Institute of Technology-Dubai within the DSO community. The initiative, according to Sheikh Hamdan, aligns with Dubai’s commitment to leveraging advanced technology for economic diversification. “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. This aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position Dubai among the world’s top three urban economies,” Sheikh Hamdan said. Keeta Drone's cutting-edge M-Drone Gen 3, equipped with six rotors and a maximum load capacity of 2.3kg, plays a crucial role in the delivery network. Integrated with an intelligent dispatch system and automated ground infrastructure, the drones provide efficient and eco-friendly solutions tailored for urban logistics. Currently, the drones are used to deliver food, medicine and other essentials. The environmental benefits of drone delivery systems are significant. Research shows that drones emit 84 percent less greenhouse gas per package compared to diesel trucks and consume 94 percent less energy. On average, the carbon emissions from drones are 10 times lower than those of traditional fuel-powered vehicles over a typical 2-3 km delivery distance. Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi, director-general of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, elaborated on the scope of the project. "We are starting with Dubai Silicon Oasis with six drones operating on four routes. Our goal is to expand this network across the emirate by 2030, covering 33% of Dubai," he said. Lengawi also revealed plans for long-term expansion, involving additional routes and strategic location planning for drone take-off and landing points. The project reflects Dubai’s ambition to pioneer smart mobility and redefine logistics in urban settings. The initiative is also expected to stimulate research and development (R&D) within the aviation sector while fostering public-private partnerships. Dubai Silicon Oasis is currently serving as the pilot area for this ambitious plan, which will eventually scale to other parts of the emirate. ICA/Expat Media
For all the latest news from the UAE and the world, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube page