Abu Dhabi to Host First Autonomous Week Driving Future Smart Mobility
Abu Dhabi is ready to step into the global spotlight with the launch of the first Abu Dhabi Autonomous Systems Week (ADAW). The event will run from 10 to 15 November 2025 and will showcase the latest in autonomous mobility, robotics, and AI innovation.
The main highlight will be the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Systems Summit, taking place on 10 November 2025 at at Yas Marina Circuit’s Vehicle Experience Zone. This summit will bring together world leaders, experts, and investors to plan the future of self-driving and intelligent systems.
The event is held under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs and Chairman of the Autonomous Systems Council. His vision is to make Abu Dhabi a global hub for innovation, research, and safe adoption of new technologies.
Why Abu Dhabi is hosting this summit
Sheikh Hamdan has stressed that the autonomous systems sector will play a big role in the world’s future. He highlighted that Abu Dhabi is committed to sustainability, innovation, and safety.
By launching ADAW, the emirate shows that it is serious about:
- Creating smarter transport networks
- Encouraging investment in advanced technologies
- Developing skills for future jobs
- Building global standards for AI and robotics
The summit is not just a meeting — it is a strategic move to position Abu Dhabi as a world leader in smart mobility.
Key themes of the summit
The Abu Dhabi Autonomous Systems Summit will cover important topics that shape the future of transport and mobility.
- Connecting air, land, and sea transport Abu Dhabi wants to create a system where cars, drones, and boats all work together to make travel faster and easier.
- Smarter public transport
Self-driving buses, smart metros, and AI-driven taxis will be explored as options for mass transport. - AI and global standardsRules for AI safety, governance, and public trust will be discussed so that people can rely on these systems.
- Collaboration across industries Experts from aviation, ports, energy, and logistics will work together to find solutions for real-world problems.
- Urban air mobility
Flying taxis and drone deliveries are no longer science fiction. Abu Dhabi wants to be one of the first cities to adopt them. - AI-driven decision making
Self-driving vehicles rely on AI to take quick and safe decisions. The summit will focus on how this can be improved. - Industrial and smart city applications
From ports to logistics hubs and smart city infrastructure, autonomous systems can improve efficiency everywhere. - Investments and skills
Another key focus will be on how to attract more funding, train skilled professionals, and ensure long-term growth.
More than a summit: Events of ADAW 2025
Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week is much bigger than one summit. Several exciting events will take place across the city during the six days.
DRIFTx Exhibition (10–12 November)
The DRIFTx showcase will run for three days at Yas Marina Circuit. Visitors will get to see self-driving cars, drones, sea vessels, and robotic technologies in action. The exhibition will highlight real-world demonstrations, giving the public a chance to experience the future of mobility.
RoboCup Asia-Pacific 2025 (10–15 November)
For the first time in the Middle East, the RoboCup Asia-Pacific competition will be held in Abu Dhabi. Hosted by Khalifa University, this event will feature international teams competing with AI-powered robots in different challenges. It will test speed, agility, and intelligence in robotics.
Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (15 November)
The week will close with the Abu Dhabi Autonomous and Remote Racing League (A2RL). This thrilling event will take place at Yas Marina Circuit and will feature racing teams from 10 countries. They will compete using autonomous racing cars, with a total prize pool of $2.25 million.
The racing league is organized by ASPIRE, part of the Advanced Technology Research Council. It will showcase the speed, safety, and decision-making power of autonomous vehicles on a global stage.
Why this event matters to Abu Dhabi and the world
The Abu Dhabi Autonomous Systems Week is not just about showcasing new gadgets. It carries a much deeper purpose for both the UAE and the global tech industry.
Making Abu Dhabi a global hub
By hosting this event, Abu Dhabi shows it is ready to be a world center for smart mobility and AI research.
Building public trust in AI
One of the biggest challenges for autonomous systems is trust. By focusing on safety, transparency, and clear rules, the summit helps people feel confident about these technologies.
Supporting startups and investment
The event creates opportunities for startups, investors, and global companies to connect. It will help raise funds and support commercialization of new ideas.
Improving life in smart cities
Autonomous systems can make cities safer, cleaner, and faster. Abu Dhabi wants to use these technologies to improve daily life and reduce pollution.
Developing talent and future skills
Through events like the RoboCup, young talent in Abu Dhabi and across the world will get a platform to learn, grow, and innovate.
Challenges that need solutions
While the opportunities are huge, there are also challenges.
- Safety and reliability: Autonomous vehicles must prove they are safe before people widely accept them.
- Global regulations: Countries need to work together to create common rules for AI and robotics.
- Cost and investment: Building these systems is expensive, and returns may take years.
- Ethics and privacy: Data protection and ethical use of AI remain global concerns.
The summit will aim to address these concerns with practical solutions.
Abu Dhabi’s long-term vision
The launch of Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week reflects a bigger national vision. The UAE wants to lead the world in:
- Advanced technology research
- Smart and sustainable mobility
- Robotics and AI regulation
- Creating future jobs for citizens
By hosting this event, Abu Dhabi is building a reputation as a city that is ready to experiment, innovate, and lead the future of transport.
