Business Desk 
Sep 29, 2025
In its drive to become a global smart mobility hub, Dubai has moved forward with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) authorising a new regulatory framework for the use of autonomous heavy vehicles in logistics.
The new regulatory framework provides rules for licensing, trial operations, technology standards for vehicles, and safety guidelines. The framework was prepared in collaboration with several private logistics companies and distributors, retailers, and other stakeholders.
According to RTA, this initiative will improve efficiencies, reduce carbon emissions, and support the Dubai Smart Self-Driving Transport Strategy, which seeks to convert a quarter of all trips into autonomous trips by 2030.
RTA Director General and Chairman Mattar Al Tayer stated the decision shows Dubai's efforts to strengthen its global competitiveness and leverage the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).
Al Tayer explained that the logistics transport sector, which operates over 61,000 heavy vehicles, can benefit from digital transformation and updated practices.
The plan is to increase the sector's direct contribution to AED 16.8 billion, increase technology adoption by 75%, reduce carbon emissions by 30%, and increase efficiencies by 10%.
Moreover, the launch will be in two phases. RTA will first move to put in place licensing regulations and safety guidelines, then do pilot operations along routes including Jebel Ali Port, Al Maktoum International Airport, Dubai Investments Park, and Ibn Battuta Mall. Some routes will have safety drivers initially, with plans to go fully autonomous.
At the same time, RTA launched Logisty, a new digital logistics platform with TruKKer, which permits customers to order commercial transport services and manage fleets in a digital manner when required.
Logisty is seen to enhance reliability and create a smarter, more user-friendly logistics system for Dubai.
