Abu dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Autonomous Summit, organised by the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC) as part of the inaugural Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week (ADAW), will convene global leaders to define the next chapter of smart and autonomous mobility. The summit is set to take place at the Vehicle Dynamic Area, Yas Marina Circuit, on 10th November 2025. It marks the beginning of Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week, held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs and Chairman of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council.
According to Emirates News Agency, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the council's commitment to accelerating sustainable transformation in the autonomous systems sector. He highlighted the aim of ensuring the safe and efficient operation of these systems to position Abu Dhabi as a global model of innovation and a leading hub in the field of cutting-edge technologies.
The summit's programme will address critical topics in the sector, such as the convergence of air, land, and sea for integrated urban mobility, and the deployment and scale-up of smart mobility models across public transport. Discussions will also cover global standards in AI governance, public trust of autonomous technologies, and cross-sector collaboration to advance autonomy through industry integration. Other key topics include the future of urban flying, AI-driven decision making, and designing industrial applications for smart ports and cities.
Additionally, summit attendees will explore the future of scaling innovation, investment, and impact. They will outline pathways for technology investment and commercialisation, with a focus on sustainability and the talent required to achieve these goals.
Throughout the week, ADAW will host a series of autonomous events. DRIFTx, scheduled from 10th to 12th November, will offer a live, interactive exhibition showcasing smart and autonomous mobility solutions across land, sea, air, and robotics.
RoboCup Asia-Pacific 2025, hosted by Khalifa University and making its first appearance in the MENA region, will occur from 10th to 15th November. It will gather top international teams to compete in AI-driven autonomous robotics challenges.
ADAW will conclude on 15th November with the second edition of the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL). This motorsport event, organised by ASPIRE and Abu Dhabi's Advanced Technology Research Council, will showcase the forefront of autonomous racing technology, offering a US$2.25 million prize pool for elite research teams from 10 countries.
The hosting of the inaugural Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week underscores Abu Dhabi's dedication to fostering a competitive, collaborative, and innovation-driven ecosystem. This initiative aims to enhance efficiency, connectivity, and quality of life through the safe and sustainable deployment of autonomous technologies.