- Abu Dhabi Mobility Week witnessed the introduction of the first passenger-carrying drone trials in the Middle East.
- The event's highlight was the debut flight of a five-seater passenger drone with a record 40-minute flight covering 123km.
Abu Dhabi has continued its efforts to shape the future of smart and sustainable mobility by nurturing strategic partnerships, attracting top companies and innovators, and offering facilities and incentives. The city has launched initiatives to explore and develop smart, autonomous solutions across land, air, and sea transportation, creating an integrated mobility ecosystem as a global model.
In line with Abu Dhabi’s vision to consolidate its leading position as a friendly and enabling city for the smart mobility sector, the inaugural Abu Dhabi Mobility Week, held in Abu Dhabi from 24 April until 1 May 2024, witnessed the introduction of the first passenger-carrying drone trials in the Middle East.
Multi Level Group (MLG), a provider of advanced automation and digital transformation solutions, in association with Abu Dhabi Mobility, presented an exhibition of its diverse range of autonomous aerial vehicles (AAVs), including eVTOLs and surveillance drones.
Additionally, the exhibition featured two test flights — one of a five-seater drone capable of travelling for more than 25km, with a payload of up to 350kg, while the second involved a small-sized drone, capable of carrying two passengers and travelling for up to 35km for approximately 20 minutes.
Furthermore, the event's highlight was the debut flight of the passenger-carrying drone, marking Al Ain City's first-ever eVTOL flight. The five-seater drone set a record with a 40-minute flight covering 123km, the longest recorded drone flight.
Celebrated luminaries from various segments of society, esteemed dignitaries, government officials, and distinguished defence personnel were present. Mohamed Hamad Al Dhaheri, a Board Member of MLG, made history by boarding the demo flight of the fully autonomous intra-city eVTOL.
“Being part of this historic moment is truly exhilarating. The seamless integration of technology and aviation represents a significant leap forward for our nation, and as an Emirati I am proud to be a part of it,” said Al Dhaheri.
Abu Dhabi-based MLG is a leading innovative and advanced company in the aviation industry, with a shared vision of utilising its innovative solutions to contribute to shaping the future of mobility through advanced technology and collaborative partnerships.
Edited by Harshajit Sarmah
