Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week: Driverless F1 cars, world’s first firefighting drone at Drift X 2025

Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit came alive yesterday with the launch of Drift X 2025, a global event dedicated to smart mobility and autonomous systems. The event is part of c, running until November 15, and is organised under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Hosted by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) in collaboration with the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council, and supported by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) and the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), the event brings together innovators, investors, and decision-makers to showcase cutting-edge technologies across air, land, and sea.

Drift X 2025 highlights the role of robotics in logistics, smart manufacturing, and urban mobility. Ahmed Subra, Head of Value, Planning and Economic Zones Development at ADIO, said the exhibition is part of efforts by the Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industries (SAVI) Cluster to position Abu Dhabi as a global hub for smart mobility technologies.

He noted that Drift X helps attract leading firms, foster advanced industries, and create knowledge-based jobs, with the SAVI Cluster projected to contribute Dh44 billion to Abu Dhabi’s GDP and generate over 35,000 jobs by 2045.

Beyond showcasing technology, the event accelerates business by spotlighting prototypes and pilot projects while facilitating collaboration among investors, regulators, and key stakeholders. It provides a strategic gateway for international smart mobility companies to enter Abu Dhabi’s market and form strategic partnerships.

Leading UAE companies are demonstrating real-world applications of autonomous technologies. K2 showcased integrated systems spanning mobility, logistics, public sanitation, hospitality, and safety, including autonomous cleaning fleets, robotic taxis, and fully automated farms.

Anan Technologies unveiled a heavy-lift autonomous drone capable of carrying up to 200 kilograms, highlighting the UAE’s growing capacity in high-tech industrial production.

The Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) showcased the EAV-25, a driverless Formula 1-style car capable of speeds up to 370 km/h, alongside autonomous boats, water taxis, and multifunctional agricultural drones.

A highlight of Drift X 2025 was Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority’s Suheil, the world’s first firefighting drone powered by jet propulsion. Designed for extreme conditions, the AI-powered drone can navigate autonomously, deploy water via a stabilized cannon, and operate in high-rise buildings, industrial zones, and confined spaces — enhancing emergency response without risking human crews.

Drift X 2025 reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for advanced technology, demonstrating the emirate’s commitment to integrating innovation, robotics, and autonomous systems into a sustainable, future-ready transport ecosystem.