Abu Dhabi to host first self-driving vehicle test hub in MENA

Abu Dhabi is set to host the MENA region’s first self-driving vehicle test hub, called the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Vehicle Test Hub, to support the safe rollout of autonomous vehicles, as reported by Emirates News Agency WAM on November 12th.

The plan for the hub was announced during the first edition of Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week, led by the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC). The development of the hub was announced by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) under the Department of Municipalities and Transport. The development is being delivered in partnership with Space42, Masdar City and Emirates Driving Company.  

This project reflects Abu Dhabi’s aim to become a leader in smart mobility and advanced transport, aligning with other strategies related to artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure and smart cities.

Abu Dhabi has been making the headlines in the business world, as Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company confirmed higher profits in 2025 and the Abu Dhabi drilling company, ADNOC Drilling, has also expanded its presence into Oman and Kuwait. 

Dr Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, acting Director General of ITC, said the hub was “a significant step towards a fully integrated ecosystem for developing and deploying self-driving technologies.” He highlighted the partnership between the public, private and academic sectors in pushing the initiative forward.

Phase one of development will focus on research and design work, which is anticipated to be finished by the end of 2026. The hub will be the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa region.

The facility will aim to create duplicate urban, suburban and mixed-use environments, to examine how self-driving vehicles perform across different conditions, while utilising advanced sensors and real-time data feeds. 

The Abu Dhabi Autonomous Vehicle Test Hub will provide skills development and training for engineers and specialists in self-driving technologies.

WAM, Maghrebi.org