Dubai is accelerating its ambitious smart mobility agenda with plans to integrate electric, self-driving trucks into its logistics network. The initiative is part of the emirate’s Self-Driving Transport Strategy, which aims to make 25% of all trips in Dubai autonomous by 2030, according to the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

A Step Toward Smarter Logistics

While images and reports circulating online have suggested that fleets of autonomous trucks are already making thousands of daily trips across Dubai’s logistics hubs, officials have not confirmed such large-scale operations. What has been confirmed is the emirate’s commitment to testing and gradually deploying autonomous electric vehicles to handle goods movement, reduce congestion, and cut carbon emissions.

Dubai South, the city’s dedicated logistics and aviation hub, has already partnered with international technology companies to pilot autonomous cargo vehicles. These tests are designed to explore how electric driverless trucks could improve container handling, last-mile delivery, and 24/7 freight operations in one of the Middle East’s busiest trade centers.

Environmental and Economic Goals

The adoption of self-driving trucks aligns with Dubai’s wider sustainability agenda. Electric autonomous logistics vehicles are expected to lower operating costs, improve delivery efficiency, and significantly reduce emissions.

Global studies, including research from MIT and Oxford University, suggest that automated electric transport systems could cut logistics-related emissions by up to 40%, a figure that Dubai’s policymakers view as critical to meeting the UAE’s climate commitments.

Trials Before Full Rollout

Currently, RTA is focusing on phased trials to ensure safety, reliability, and integration with Dubai’s existing transport network. Officials stress that self-driving technologies will be gradually introduced across freight corridors, public transport, and even taxis, with the logistics sector seen as one of the fastest areas for adoption due to its repetitive, high-volume routes.

Dubai’s Global Leadership in Smart Transport

Dubai has already launched pilot projects in autonomous shuttles, robo-taxis, and smart delivery systems. By extending these technologies to freight and logistics, the city hopes to position itself as a global leader in AI-driven urban mobility.

“Dubai’s vision is not only about keeping pace with technology but shaping the future of smart and sustainable transport,” the RTA said in a strategy document.

Looking Ahead

Although the claim that autonomous trucks in Dubai are already completing 1,600 daily trips remains unverified, the direction is clear: Dubai is committed to a future where driverless, electric vehicles are central to moving both people and goods.

If successful, the emirate’s strategy could set a global benchmark for how cities integrate advanced technology into everyday logistics while balancing efficiency, cost, and environmental responsibility.