Dubai unveils self-driving zone for land, marine transport

Dubai has unveiled a new 15 sq.km. Self-Driving Transport Zone, marking a major step forward in the city’s autonomous mobility plans.

Launched during the Dubai World Congress for Self-Driving Transport, the zone covers three key areas — Al Jaddaf Metro Station, Dubai Festival City and Dubai Creek Harbour.

Designed as a fully integrated hub, it features a mix of autonomous transport options, including the Dubai Metro, a self-driving bus, an autonomous logistics vehicle, a road-cleaning vehicle, a delivery robot, and even a driverless abra.

The initiative aims to give users flexible choices based on speed, cost and convenience, across both land and marine transport.

The plan was reviewed by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, who inaugurated the fourth edition of the Congress at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

Sheikh Ahmed also attended a ceremony to honour the winners of the Dubai World Challenge for Self-Driving Transport 2025, which offers prizes totalling $3 million, of which $1.2 million is allocated for the first and second place winners, while $1.8 million is dedicated to supporting the operation of the Dubai Self-Driving Transport Zone. 

• A consortium comprising WeRide and Deutsche Bahn won first place for a project that integrates a self-driving taxi with a self-driving bus, receiving a prize of $900,000.
• Second place was awarded to Zealous Technology from Singapore for a comprehensive self-driving transport solution. The project involved transporting heavy goods between warehouses and providing autonomous last-mile logistics for cargo delivery. The company was awarded $300,000.

Ahmed bin Mohammed opens 4th Dubai World Congress for Self-Driving Transport; attends a ceremony held to honour winners of the Dubai World Challenge for Self-Driving Transport 2025. @rta_dubai pic.twitter.com/2TAj4AI6Ep

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) September 24, 2025