Dubai is constantly pushing boundaries when it comes to technology. With the world trying to gain an edge in technology, Dubai is trying hard to take a lead. Recently, Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum announced that Dubai is planning to develop a drone transport system in the emirate.
Crown Prince and Dubai Drone Transportation System
This development ought to further strengthen Dubai’s position in the global race of the tech sector. This initiative encompasses everything and engages all relevant sectors. It will combine engineers, innovators, and manufacturers to create aerial vehicles and test them in the designated areas as well as legislative bodies to manage legal formalities to optimize their implementation.
Sheikh Hamdan said, “The program aims to provide new economic opportunities and consolidate Dubai’s leadership in advanced technology research and development across diverse future-oriented sectors.”
He further explains that UAE’s primary objective will always be to improve the lifestyle of its citizens. “We have the right environment, infrastructure, and legislation for the use of drones,” he continued.
Scope of the New Technology in Dubai
The drones can be used across multiple sectors including health, security, shopping, and food. Apart from that, their use in agriculture can also be explored as well as they can come in handy in reducing carbon emissions generated by current methods of transportation.
To quote Alain Bejjani, the CEO of Majid Al Futtaim, “There is no doubt that the use of drone technology has great potential for all industries. Drone delivery operations can be faster, safer, and more cost-effective and environmentally friendly”.
Economically, this program aims to attract major investments and create new jobs. This will stimulate a lot of economic activity as local and foreign talents are expected to rush in. In this regard, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed between the government and private sector to ensure the smooth running of Dubai drone transport operations. The signatories of the MoU include DFF, DCAA, DSOA, Emirates SkyCargo, Fakeeh University Hospital, and Majid Al Futtaim.
Role of the MoU Signatories in Dubai Drone Transport
Dubai Future Labs is the first Research and Development (R&D) lab specialising in future technology. The DFF, one of the signatories of the MoU mentioned above, is set to supervise Dubai Future Labs to ensure the implementation of the Dubai drone transportation program.
Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority or DSOA will provide the designated area for investors and innovators to test and develop new technology and come up with drone solutions. These investors could be coming from around the globe.
As per Crown Prince’s vision, the government will overlook the legislative framework to facilitate the implementation of this program. This includes everything from the development of porotypes to testing and implementation. With constant improvement and innovation, Dubai sets out to come up with the best drone transportation system in the world.
According to Nabil Sultan, Emirates divisional senior vice president, “Innovation is a core part of the Emirates DNA and we are constantly evaluating technologies that can make supply chains more efficient and resilient.” He further explained his vision by adding that these drones can be used for last-mile transportation and delivery purposes, especially in e-commerce.
Government is Prioritizing Drone Transport Initiative
In July 2020, a new law was issued by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum easing the pathway for the implementation of this program. The law is regulatory in nature and provides guidelines for the use of drones in Dubai to meet the highest international standards.
Drone technology is on the priority list of UAE’s national strategies. The government is rolling out several programs and initiatives to support its development. Owing to its efforts, the country has attracted more than 1,800 global participants.
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