The capital’s getting future-savvy in a major way! The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), has launched a fleet of Robosweeper self-driving cleaning vehicles on the Abu Dhabi Corniche.
Developed by K2 subsidiary Autogo under the supervision of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council, it is overseen by the DMT. The latest in a line of self-driving service vehicles to join the emirate’s roads, it underscores the aims towards sustainable public facility management.
What do we know about the Robosweeper so far?
The Robosweepers offer an advanced cleaning and sanitisation solution utilising sensors and modern navigation technologies. The units move along pre-programmed routes, cleaning without direct human intervention.
Designed for urban environments such as pavements, squares, and pedestrian areas, they help reduce the reliance on manual labour while ensuring optimal public hygiene services.
The initiative is a crucial step in Abu Dhabi’s efforts to build an integrated advanced services system, aligning with the emirate’s strategy for enhanced operational efficiency and quality of life.
Dr Saif Sultan Al Nasri, Acting Undersecretary at DMT, said: “The deployment of such technology exemplifies our proactive approach to integrating cutting-edge technology into public infrastructure. By pioneering such solutions, we are actively shaping a future where innovation directly contributes to operational management and enhances the well-being of our community. This programme reinforces Abu Dhabi’s global standing as a forward-thinking, highly efficient capital city.
Dr Abdulla Hamad Al Ghfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, said: “The launch of this project reaffirms Abu Dhabi’s commitment to continuing investment in smart and green solutions that advance the transport and public services sector, enhance operational efficiency, and adopt the latest technological innovations in line with global best practices.
“This represents an important step towards building a unified framework that improves the environment, enhances community wellbeing, and secures a better future for generations to come in Abu Dhabi.”
Sean Teo, Managing Director of K2, said: “We are proud to partner with the Integrated Transport Centre and Abu Dhabi Municipality on this venture, which demonstrates our dedication to developing innovative robotics and intelligent service solutions. The RoboSweeper devices represent a leap forward in building future cities, and we remain committed to investing in technologies that support Abu Dhabi’s vision and meet the needs of the community, today and in the future.”
Self-driving cleaning vehicles, delivery vehicles and more
The Robosweepers are just the latest in a slew of initiatives to improve living standards in the emirate, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global leader in planning and eco-friendly transport.
There were also trials for the “Auto-Delivery” vehicles in Masdar City earlier this year, developed by K2 subsidiary Autogo, are designed to provide an advanced solution for autonomous logistics. The self-driving delivery vehicle is equipped with smart mobility and AI-powered systems, so they don’t need human control to navigate city streets and deliver orders.
This trial operation supports the emirate’s strategic vision for smart mobility. For Abu Dhabi, that is to ensure that 25 per cent of all trips are made using smart transport solutions by 2040. And with autonomous taxis or self-driving taxis and other transport solutions already on the road, things are looking futuristic already!
