2025 Announcement Sets Stage for Regional First
During DRIFTx 2025, part of the inaugural Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week, the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC) announced the creation of the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Vehicle Test Hub. Under the supervision of SASC and delivered by the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), this initiative marks the first dedicated autonomous vehicle testing facility in the Middle East and North Africa. Phase one, focused on studies and design, is scheduled for completion by the end of 2026.
Collaboration Across Four Strategic Partners
The project is a joint effort between Abu Dhabi Mobility, Space42, Masdar City, and Emirates Driving Company. Each partner brings unique expertise: Abu Dhabi Mobility provides regulatory oversight, Masdar City offers its innovation ecosystem, Space42 contributes advanced technology solutions, and Emirates Driving Company ensures safety and training standards. Together, they form a comprehensive framework for developing and certifying autonomous systems.
Building National Capability Through Testing Ecosystems
The Abu Dhabi Autonomous Vehicle Test Hub is designed to replicate diverse operating conditions across city centres, suburban areas, and mixed-use environments. This ecosystem will allow for rigorous testing of autonomous driving performance across multiple operational design domains (ODDs). Advanced sensing networks, digital-twin capabilities, and real-time monitoring systems will integrate seamlessly with Abu Dhabi’s digital platforms, including the Autonomous Vehicles Integrated Testing, Operations and Management System (AViTOMS).
Data-Driven Infrastructure for Safety and Innovation
The facility will feature real-time analytics and incident-response integration, ensuring operational safety and efficiency. By embedding digital-twin technology, the hub will simulate complex traffic scenarios and environmental conditions, enabling developers to validate autonomous systems against real-world challenges. This data-oriented approach strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a leader in smart mobility innovation.
Leadership Perspectives on the Hub’s Impact
Dr Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of Abu Dhabi Mobility, emphasized that the hub represents a fully integrated ecosystem for self-driving technologies. He highlighted its role in elevating safety standards and supporting the UAE’s AI Strategy 2031. Ahmed Baghoum, CEO of Masdar City, described the initiative as “Falcon Economy in action,” positioning Abu Dhabi as the regional centre of gravity for intelligent mobility. Khalid Al Shemeili, CEO of Emirates Driving Company, praised the collaboration, noting its alignment with EDC’s long-term vision for smart mobility empowerment.
Knowledge Exchange and Skills Development
Beyond testing, the hub will serve as a platform for training engineers and specialists in autonomous systems. It will foster collaboration with universities, research institutions, and global companies, creating opportunities for pilot projects and joint initiatives. This knowledge-sharing ecosystem ensures that Abu Dhabi builds not only infrastructure but also human capital to sustain its leadership in autonomous mobility.
Strategic Role in Abu Dhabi’s Digital Transformation
The Abu Dhabi Autonomous Vehicle Test Hub aligns with the emirate’s broader digital transformation agenda. By advancing frameworks and policies for safe adoption of autonomous technologies, Abu Dhabi Mobility reinforces its supervisory role in shaping the future of transport. The hub embodies Abu Dhabi’s vision to become a global centre for smart mobility, driving innovation across land, air, and sea transport systems.
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