Autonomous Delivery-bots tested in Dubai

A pilot scheme testing autonomous food delivery robots has been launched in Dubai's Silicon Oasis (DSO).

Also known as 'talabots' the trial, run by the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) in partnership with Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) and talabat UAE, hopes to revolutionise sustainable last-mile delivery in the UAE.

This joint effort is set to employ advanced technology and encourage the use of zero-emission modes of delivery while enhancing efficiency, in line with Dubai’s efforts to switch 25 per cent of all trips in Dubai to be smart and driverless by 2030. 

This phase will see the introduction of three 'talabots' to serve Cedre Villas residents, a gated community in the heart of DSO.

They will travel within a 3-kilometre radius from the Cedre shopping Centre launch point, to ensure a 15-minute delivery time.

The launch of autonomous delivery robots is part of ambitions to support riders in the next generation of sustainable delivery by having robots cover short-distance deliveries to increase efficiency, fleet optimisation and reduce carbon emissions.