Strategic Vision and Oversight
The initiative forms part of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC), overseen by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC). It covers the registration, testing, and regulatory approval of Level 4 AVs—vehicles capable of operating without human input in defined areas.
Moreover, this step signals a strong alignment between government policy and industry innovation.
“Level 4 testing marks a substantial leap forward in AV capabilities,” said Ahmed Baghoum, CEO of Masdar City. “This initiative aligns with our vision to shape future cities through innovation, digital integration, and environmental responsibility.”
Building on a Legacy of Clean Mobility
Masdar City has led in autonomous transport since 2010, making it one of the first urban hubs worldwide to embrace AV technology. In addition, the Smart Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) cluster provides a collaborative testbed for global manufacturers. As a result, companies can pilot and refine their systems within a real-world ecosystem.
Real-World Urban Testing
The proof-of-concept phase spans a 2.4-kilometer geofenced route, connecting key destinations such as:
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Siemens Building
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North Car Park
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My City Center Masdar Mall
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Central Park
Furthermore, the route includes high-profile locations like the IRENA headquarters, MC2, and The Link. This variety ensures diverse conditions for testing navigation, performance, and responsiveness.
At first, trained safety officers will sit inside the AVs. However, as the trials advance, the plan is to transition to fully autonomous operations monitored remotely from a central command hub.
Partnership with Solutions+
“Testing AVs in real-world conditions is critical,” said Ali Alyafei, COO of Solutions+. “Masdar City combines advanced infrastructure with a deep commitment to sustainability, making it the ideal partner.”
In fact, the trials will evaluate how AV systems handle local infrastructure, traffic flow, and climate conditions. Therefore, they provide insights essential to safe and sustainable deployment while ensuring compliance with the UAE’s strict safety and environmental standards.
Supporting Abu Dhabi’s Net Zero Vision
The project strengthens the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative and aligns with Abu Dhabi’s vision for an integrated, sustainable transport system.
“This initiative reaffirms our commitment to enabling a smart, sustainable transport ecosystem,” said Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director-General of ITC. “It positions Abu Dhabi as a global leader in innovation.”
Consequently, the project demonstrates how government-backed strategies can accelerate private-sector innovation in mobility.
Looking Ahead: EVIS 2026
Progress in Masdar City reflects the broader shift in the UAE’s transportation landscape. Meanwhile, global attention is shifting toward decarbonization and intelligent transport solutions.
These advancements will feature prominently at the Electric Vehicle Innovation Summit (EVIS) 2026 in Abu Dhabi. There, global leaders in EV and AV technology will gather to explore the future of clean, connected, and autonomous mobility.
Ultimately, initiatives like Masdar City’s Level 4 AV testing prove the UAE’s role as a living lab for smart mobility innovation. At EVIS 2026, attendees will witness, engage, and shape what’s next.
Source: https://economymiddleeast.com/news/masdar-city-pilots-level-4-self-driving-vehicles-as-uae-pushes-smart-mobility-vision/
