Abu dhabi: The Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), in partnership with the Emirati smart mobility firm Lumo and backed by the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC), has initiated discussions on launching the Middle East and North Africa's first autonomous public transport bus trial. This collaboration marks a significant move towards developing and implementing autonomous driving systems in the region.
According to Emirates News Agency, the discussions are part of ongoing efforts to explore smart mobility solutions in Abu Dhabi. The collaboration, which was initially spurred by engagements at GITEX Global 2025, aims to review international best practices in autonomous public transportation and consider pilot projects and technical studies to advance autonomous mobility technologies in Abu Dhabi.
This initiative aligns with Abu Dhabi's broader strategy to adopt smart mobility solutions, targeting that by 2040, 25 percent of all trips in the emirate will be made using smart and autonomous modes of transport. This goal is part of the Abu Dhabi Smart and Autonomous Mobility Strategy, which seeks to integrate advanced technologies into transport operations to enhance sustainability and innovation.
Hamad Adel Al Afeefi, Executive Director of the Intelligent Transport Systems Sector at ITC, emphasized that this collaboration underscores Abu Dhabi's commitment to leading in smart mobility. The autonomous bus trial is viewed as a strategic initiative to incorporate artificial intelligence and advanced technology into the emirate's transport systems, aligning with its sustainability objectives.
Sean Teo, CEO of Lumo, expressed the company's dedication to supporting Abu Dhabi's mobility agenda. He highlighted Lumo's focus on leveraging its expertise in artificial intelligence and autonomous systems to develop practical and scalable solutions for future transport needs.