AD Ports Group, Emirates Post and SkyGo set to trial drone delivery initiative

Maqta Gateway, the digital arm of AD Ports Group; Emirates Post Group and SkyGo, an aerial logistics provider, will trial a new initiative that would provide comprehensive aerial drone delivery and other services in Abu Dhabi.

As part of the project, Maqta Gateway will deploy its integrated digital marketplace, Margo Hub, to facilitate online transactions between customers; Emirates Post Group will manage the service and provide tracking and status updates, while SkyGo will provide drone solutions.

Dr Noura Al Dhaheri, CEO – Digital Cluster and CEO – Maqta Gateway, AD Ports Group, said: “Drone services could enable greater convenience and faster delivery times for customers across Abu Dhabi, while ensuring a positive environmental impact. Margo Hub is a state-of-the-art integrated digital marketplace for all logistics needs, from trucking and warehousing through to the last mile and express delivery, so the expansion into drone services is a seamless extension.”

The trial programme will deploy aerial drones to carry parcels and documents to specified Emirates Post sites across Abu Dhabi.

Beginning with short-range journeys, the programme will expand to long-range tests with an increased capacity to assess demand and understand the wider benefits.

“This explorative drone project represents an efficient and environmentally responsible solution for the delivery of small to medium-sized packages, in line with the Universal Postal Union’s (UPU) sustainable development objectives.  By supporting this project, we are confident that we can alleviate road congestion and reduce fuel consumption in last-mile deliveries,” said Abdulla Mohammed Alashram, group CEO of Emirates Post Group.

Mohammed Al Dhaheri, CEO – SkyGo, said: “SkyGo is focused on proactively pioneering the technology of drones across the UAE to positively disrupt multiple sectors within the marketplace. Our ability to collaborate and deliver value has ensured continuous fruitful partnerships with leaders such as the General Civil Aviation Authority, our main partner in our drone project.”

Details of the trial programme will be released towards the end of the year, with a full commercial offering planned for launch in the next year, pending approval.

in other news, AD Ports Group unveiled KEZAD Group as part of its plan to consolidate and grow its Economic Cities & Free Zones offering.

Read: AD Ports launches KEZAD Group to streamline services for strategic industries