UAE Advances Air Corridor Mapping For Autonomous Air Taxis, Drones

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 18 (Bernama) -- The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has initiated a groundbreaking project to redefine urban transportation by mapping air corridors and developing a regulatory framework for piloted and autonomous air taxis and cargo drones.

This initiative, a collaboration between the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), aims to transform urban mobility in the UAE, making it a global leader in future transportation.

With aerial corridors and regulations set to be defined within the next 20 months, this pioneering effort demonstrates the UAE’s unwavering commitment to deploying safe, advanced, sustainable transportation solutions that will not only ease congestion but also set a global benchmark for future urban mobility systems.

These routes will connect key international airports and iconic places in the UAE, extending further to ensure seamless integration of piloted and autonomous air taxis and cargo drones across the nation’s urban landscapes, according to a statement.

TII Chief Executive Officer, Dr Najwa Aaraj stated that this collaboration represents a transformative step in urban transportation, noting that the integration of piloted and autonomous air vehicles will not only enhance connectivity but also promote sustainable and accessible mobility solutions that benefit future generations.

Meanwhile, GCAA Director General, Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi emphasised the significance of this milestone in integrating Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) into the UAE’s infrastructure and highlighted that the initiative would enhance urban transport efficiency, alleviate congestion, and lay the foundation for a smarter, more connected future.

The project will leverage the TII’s expertise in airspace management and AAM technology, optimising routes and improving urban connectivity. ASPIRE, another key partner, will work on creating a network of stakeholders to support the initiative.

The agreement was officially announced at the World Governments Summit 2025, marking a significant moment in the UAE’s efforts to pioneer advanced urban mobility.

The collaboration aims to make the UAE a global benchmark for urban mobility solutions, with cutting-edge technology and regulatory frameworks ensuring safe and efficient operations.

-- BERNAMA