First self-driving vertical takeoff drone taxis to be trialled at Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal

Advanced Mobility Hub (AMH), a subsidiary of Multi Level Group, and AD Ports Group, the operator of the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal, have signed an agreement to launch in Abu Dhabi the first trial vertiport in the UAE.

The agreement will see vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) self-driving drone taxis trialled for operation at Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal, potentially giving cruise tourists to the city a unique and advanced way of exploring the city and reaching its key landmarks.

The collaboration between the two companies seeks to advance autonomous transportation in the emirate, representing a step in the development of the operational environment, such as ground stations and autonomous driving technology. 

“We are always looking for new opportunities and creative ideas to increase our efficiency and excellence, providing our customers with the most enjoyable experiences in an environmentally friendly manner as part of our endeavour to promote sustainability,” said Noura Rashed Al Dhaheri, CEO of Cruise Business at AD Ports Group. 

“With the presence of technology, which can draw new horizons for cruises, we are pleased to be one of the pioneers in the development of the cruise sector and its supporting services,” she added. 

Multi Level Group and AD Ports Group said in a release that the self-driving drone taxis will be eletric and capable of carrying two to five individuals, and will initially be deployed for cruise tourists visiting Abu Dhabi, before being rolled out for additional services such as logistics. 

“This plan aims to enrich the experience of cruise passengers and contribute to enhancing tourism activities in the UAE, by providing air tours to see the tourist attractions in the emirate of Abu Dhabi,” explained Mohamed Salah, CEO of Multi Level Group. “This in turn supports increasing the number of tourist nights and creating additional sustainable and non-polluting activities.”

Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal, located in Port Zayed opposite the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi and Cultural District, is within 10 minutes flying time of any of the major attractions in the city, including Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and the theme parks and water parks of Yas Island.

In 2023 the city was named the World’s Best Cruise Destination by London-based World Cruise Awards, while AD Ports Group’s Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal at Port Zayed bagged the World’s Best Cruise Terminal. Around 700,000 cruise tourists visit the city every cruise season, between November and March.