Latest news with #AbdullaHamadAlGhfeli
Arabian Post
a day ago
- Automotive
- Arabian Post
Masdar City Drives In Level 4 Autonomous Vehicle Future
Masdar City has initiated real‑world testing of Level 4 autonomous vehicles, partnering with smart mobility firm Solutions+, a Mubadala venture. Overseen by Abu Dhabi's Integrated Transport Centre, the pilot marks a deliberate move in the emirate's drive to establish itself as a leading smart and sustainable transport hub. The programme involves the registration, safety certification and operational approval of fully autonomous vehicles for deployment across a 2.4 km geofenced route. The chosen circuit links key locations such as the Siemens building, North Car Park, My City Centre Masdar mall, Central Park, the International Renewable Energy Agency headquarters, MC2, and The Link. Initially, a safety officer will occupy each vehicle, with remote monitoring and control from a centralised operations hub expected as the trial progresses. Level 4 autonomy permits vehicles to function without human intervention within a defined area, representing a significant leap in self‑driving technology. Masdar City's role as a living laboratory for clean‑tech and smart mobility innovation—anchored by the Smart Autonomous Vehicles Industry cluster—makes it an ideal setting for such trials. ADVERTISEMENT Ahmed Baghoum, chief executive officer of Masdar City, praised the initiative as 'a substantial leap forward in AV capabilities,' emphasising that this collaboration with Solutions+ 'perfectly aligns with our vision to shape the cities of the future through innovation, digital integration and environmental responsibility'. His remarks underscore Masdar City's ambition to streamline sustainability and technology in urban environments. Dr Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, acting director‑general of the ITC, described the project as 'a key milestone in Abu Dhabi's vision to embrace future transport technologies,' reinforcing that the regulatory framework is tuned to support innovation and smart mobility adoption. Solutions+ chief operations officer, Ali Alyafei, highlighted the trial's value in testing Level 4 systems across both infrastructure and climatic conditions unique to the UAE. Alyafei noted the collaboration supports the broader UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative. The proof‑of‑concept will assess performance, safety and adaptability under real‑world conditions. Feedback from the testing phase will inform adjustments to vehicle systems and supporting infrastructure to ensure compliance with Abu Dhabi's regulations. This groundwork is vital before any plans for expansion across the emirate. Masdar City's commitment to autonomous mobility dates back to 2010, when first-generation AVs were introduced. Since then, it has continuously evolved into a showcase for urban sustainability and innovation. Today, it hosts approximately 15,000 residents and office workers, centred around industry clusters including smart mobility, energy, agritech, AI and space technology. This new Level 4 initiative aligns with the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council strategy, reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as a global contender in clean technology and sustainable transport. By offering a controlled yet genuine urban environment, Masdar City has become a magnet for international autonomous vehicle manufacturers seeking to refine their technology in real‑world conditions. The local climate—with high temperatures and distinctive road conditions—provides an invaluable testing environment. Results from these tests are expected to shape future regulatory and infrastructural policies, guiding the emirate's broader ambitions. As Masdar City continues to attract AV pioneers, it enhances the SAVI cluster's reputation. The initiative also signals to investors and technology partners that the UAE remains at the forefront of smart‑city innovation. Under the strategic oversight of the ITC, regulatory frameworks are being adapted to accommodate autonomous systems, ensuring safety without stifling progress. Abu Dhabi's commitment to net‑zero emissions by 2050 finds fresh impetus in this initiative. Implementation of Level 4 autonomous vehicles could significantly reduce urban emissions, congestion and dependence on traditional public transport modes. The phased rollout—starting with onboard safety personnel, transitioning to remote operations—offers a controlled yet scalable model for future deployment across similar precincts. It creates a clear pathway for integration into broader transport systems.
Gulf Insider
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Gulf Insider
Abu Dhabi's Masdar City Begins New Self-Driving Car Trials
Masdar City has commenced testing level 4 autonomous vehicles as part of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council's strategy, working in partnership with smart mobility provider Solutions+, a Mubadala company. The Integrated Transport Centre oversees the initiative, which involves registration, testing and operational approval of autonomous vehicles to ensure safety, compliance and alignment with Abu Dhabi's vision for smart mobility. The project demonstrates the emirate's commitment to driving innovation and shaping the future through technology whilst underlining Masdar City's role as a hub for clean technology and home to the Smart Autonomous Vehicles Industry cluster in advancing autonomous transport. Level 4 automation represents a leap in autonomous vehicle technology, enabling vehicles to operate entirely independently within a geofenced zone. Masdar City offers a 'real-world testbed' for sustainable mobility by inviting manufacturers to test their level 4 autonomous vehicles in its integrated urban ecosystem, the Abu Dhabi Media Office (ADMO) said in a statement. Ahmed Baghoum, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar City said: 'The announcement of level 4 testing marks a substantial leap forward in AV capabilities and we are proud that Masdar City is once again leading the field in the development of such a critical future technology. The initiative also aligns perfectly with our vision to shape the cities of the future through innovation, digital integration and environmental responsibility. By collaborating with partners like Solutions+, we are not only advancing autonomous vehicle technology but also contributing to a more sustainable and efficient urban landscape for all.' The proof of concept phase monitors the technology's performance within the UAE's real-world infrastructure and climatic conditions, delivering insights for development of autonomous transportation. Dr Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director-General of the ITC, added: 'This initiative marks a key milestone in Abu Dhabi's vision to embrace future transport technologies and reaffirms our commitment to providing an integrated regulatory environment that supports innovation and accelerates the adoption of smart mobility solutions. We are working to enable a sustainable and flexible transport model that enhances the emirate's competitiveness and supports its ambition to become a global hub for smart cities and sustainable mobility.' The vehicles follow a 2.4km test route linking locations including the Siemens building, North Car Park, My City Centre Masdar mall and Central Park, navigating past landmarks including the International Renewable Energy Agency headquarters, MC2 and The Link. The autonomous vehicles initially operate with safety officers onboard but will transition to operation from a centralised remote control room as the programme progresses. Ali Alyafei, Chief Operations Officer at Solutions+, explained: 'Partnering with Masdar City allows us to test our level 4 autonomous vehicles in a unique, real-world environment that combines cutting-edge infrastructure with a strong commitment to sustainability. This collaboration not only helps refine our technology but also demonstrates how innovative mobility solutions can contribute to building smarter, more efficient urban ecosystems aligned with the UAE's Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative.' The testing enables autonomous vehicles to be modified according to the UAE's requirements and operational infrastructure. Masdar City will assess performance, safety and adaptability during testing before considering deployment in line with Abu Dhabi Government regulations. The initiative underscores Masdar City's leadership in accelerating change and innovation through its Smart Mobility Cluster. By serving as a testbed for technologies, Masdar City helps shape the future of sustainable urban transportation and positions itself as an enabler of clean-tech advancements. The trials represent the latest milestone in the urban sustainability hub's commitment to autonomous vehicle development, following the introduction of the first generation of vehicles in 2010.
Al Etihad
2 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
Department of Municipalities and Transport issues Regulatory Bylaw for Maritime Safety in the Waterways of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi
11 July 2025 20:46 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has introduced the Regulatory Bylaw for Maritime Safety in the Waterways of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, featuring a wide range of regulations designed to ensure the safety, sustainability, and responsible use of the emirate's noted that Abu Dhabi has around 45,000 square kilometres of water bodies, with a coastline of approximately 2,400 kilometres, including 230 islands, making Abu Dhabi's maritime sector vital to its economy, environment, and way of life. The new rules establish clear, consistent standards for all waterway usage, including commercial and recreational bylaw sets out responsibilities for maritime stakeholders, detailing licensing requirements, operational conduct, environmental obligations, and emergency response duties, among other provisions. It also places a special emphasis on marine environmental protection, with regulations aimed at preventing pollution and preserving Abu Dhabi's rich natural Dhabi Maritime, in collaboration with the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), a DMT affiliate, will serve as the implementing body for many of the regulations. Abu Dhabi Maritime's responsibilities include inspections, wreck removal, infrastructure monitoring, and the installation of navigational Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), said: "These regulations demonstrate Abu Dhabi's commitment to upholding the highest safety standards across all mobility sectors, including the vital maritime sector. Through this integrated regulatory framework, we aim to improve the efficiency of maritime operations, safeguard the environment, promote the safe and sustainable use of our waterways, and offer our services to users, to support our vision for a safer and more sustainable future.'These regulations enshrine responsibilities for all waterway users, ensuring the safety of everyone on our waters and protecting the ecosystems that sustain us. By implementing unified standards and empowering oversight, we are laying the groundwork for a more resilient, world-class maritime sector.' In support of these new measures, a structured system of maritime service fees and fines has been established. Fees will apply to licenses, permits, and inspections, while violations of the regulations, including unsafe behaviour, environmental breaches, and non-compliance with navigation rules, may result in financial penalties. The maritime safety regulations will take effect once they are published in the Official Gazette of Abu Dhabi emirate.
Gulf Today
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Gulf Today
Masdar City initiates trials of its advanced autonomous vehicles
Masdar City has begun testing level 4 autonomous vehicles (AV) in the city, in partnership with smart mobility provider Solutions+, a Mubadala company. The initiative, overseen by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), has involved the registration, testing and operational approval of autonomous vehicles, ensuring safety, compliance and alignment with Abu Dhabi's broader vision for smart mobility. The project demonstrates the emirate's commitment to driving innovation and shaping the future through cutting-edge technology and underlines the role of Masdar City, a global hub for clean technology and home to the Smart Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) cluster, in further advancing autonomous transport. Level 4 automation is a significant leap in AV technology as it enables the vehicle to operate entirely on its own within a specific geofenced zone. Masdar City is offering a real-world testbed for advanced sustainable mobility by inviting global manufacturers to test their level 4 AVs in its integrated urban ecosystem. Ahmed Baghoum, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar City, said, 'The announcement of level 4 testing marks a substantial leap forward in AV capabilities and we are proud that Masdar City is once again leading the field in the development of such a critical future technology. The initiative also aligns perfectly with our vision to shape the cities of the future through innovation, digital integration and environmental responsibility.' Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director-General of the ITC, said, 'This initiative marks a key milestone in Abu Dhabi's vision to embrace future transport technologies and reaffirms our commitment to providing an integrated regulatory environment that supports innovation and accelerates the adoption of smart mobility solutions. We are working to enable a sustainable and flexible transport model that enhances the emirate's competitiveness and supports its ambition to become a global hub for smart cities and sustainable mobility.' Ali Alyafei, Chief Operations Officer at Solutions+, stated, 'Partnering with Masdar City allows us to test our level 4 autonomous vehicles in a unique, real-world environment that combines cutting-edge infrastructure with a strong commitment to sustainability. This collaboration not only helps refine our technology but also demonstrates how innovative mobility solutions can contribute to building smarter, more efficient urban ecosystems aligned with the UAE's Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative.' The proof of concept phase is an opportunity to monitor the technology's performance amid the real-world infrastructure and specific climatic conditions of the UAE, delivering invaluable insights for the global development of autonomous transportation. The vehicles are following a comprehensive 2.4km test route that links several important locations, such as the Siemens building, North Car Park, My City Centre Masdar mall and Central Park, navigating past prominent landmarks including the International Renewable Energy Agency headquarters, MC2 and The Link. The AVs initially have safety officers onboard but will transition to fully autonomous operation from a centralised remote control room as the programme progresses. The testing will enable AVs to be modified in line with the UAE's requirements and operational infrastructure. Masdar City will assess performance, safety and adaptability during testing before considering wider deployment in line with Abu Dhabi Government regulations. This initiative underscores Masdar City's leadership in accelerating change and innovation through its Smart Mobility Cluster. By serving as a testbed for cutting-edge technologies, Masdar City is helping to shape the future of sustainable urban transportation and positioning itself as a key enabler of clean-tech advancements. The trials are the latest milestone in the urban sustainability hub's commitment to the development of AVs, with the introduction of the first generation of vehicles in 2010. Earlier in January 2025, Masdar City has officially launched testing of cutting-edge autonomous vehicles as part of its ambitious vision to redefine sustainable urban transportation. This initiative, highlighted during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW), reinforces Masdar City's position as a global leader in sustainable innovation. As the Strategic Partner of the World Future Energy Summit (WFES), Masdar City is showcasing its autonomous vehicle initiatives, engaging with policymakers, industry leaders, and visionaries to create a greener and more connected future. The first vehicle undergoing testing is a shuttle-style electric vehicle equipped with advanced LIDAR sensors, electronic components, and innovative software that enable it to navigate obstacles, detect other vehicles, and drive independently. WAM
TECHx
2 days ago
- Automotive
- TECHx
Masdar City Begins Testing Level 4 Autonomous Vehicles
Home » Smart Cities » Masdar City Begins Testing Level 4 Autonomous Vehicles Masdar City has announced the launch of a new testing program for level 4 autonomous vehicles (AVs), as part of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC) strategy. The initiative is being implemented in partnership with Solutions+, a Mubadala company, and is overseen by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC). The project includes the registration, testing, and operational approval of AVs. It aims to ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and alignment with Abu Dhabi's broader vision for smart mobility. Officials reported that this initiative highlights Masdar City's role as a global clean-tech hub and the home of the Smart Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) cluster. The level 4 technology allows AVs to operate independently within a defined geofenced area. Masdar City is inviting global manufacturers to test their vehicles in its integrated, sustainable urban environment. Ahmed Baghoum, CEO of Masdar City, revealed that the level 4 testing represents a major step forward in AV capabilities. He emphasized the city's commitment to innovation, digital integration, and environmental responsibility. Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director-General of the ITC, said the initiative reinforces Abu Dhabi's dedication to future transport technologies. It supports an integrated regulatory framework that encourages innovation and promotes sustainable mobility. Ali Alyafei, COO at Solutions+, added that testing in Masdar City provides a valuable real-world environment combining advanced infrastructure and sustainability goals. The project supports the UAE's Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative. The proof-of-concept phase will examine AV performance under real-world conditions and UAE-specific climate challenges. The current 2.4km route connects several key locations including: Siemens building North Car Park My City Centre Masdar mall Central Park AVs will also navigate past landmarks like the International Renewable Energy Agency headquarters, MC2, and The Link. Initially, safety officers will ride in the vehicles, which will later be operated remotely from a control room. Masdar City will monitor safety, performance, and adaptability before considering wider deployment. This trial reflects the city's long-standing leadership in sustainable mobility. Masdar City first introduced AVs in 2010 and continues to serve as a testbed for advanced transportation technologies.
