Aramex completes first drone delivery in Oman

Logistics provider Aramex has completed the pilot phase of its drone delivery programme in Muscat, Oman.

The test flights were conducted in partnership with US-based UVL Robotics, a drone technology provider.

So here’s Aramex droning on about the future of logistics!
This test delivery is the start our shift towards fully transitioning into emission-free electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles ⚡
Aramex goes further, faster & more sustainably 🍃
👉 https://t.co/FhuEli5FbZ pic.twitter.com/YsKXS46Fu1

— Aramex (@Aramex) October 5, 2022

The drone testing is part of Aramex’s “Future Delivery Program”, which aims to leverage the next generation of last-mile delivery solutions to boost delivery efficiencies, improve customer satisfaction, and generate cost savings, the company said in a statement.

The test is the first of a multi-phase programme as the logistics provider aims to transition its fleet to emission-free electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. The pilot focused primarily on testing a fully autonomous drone to deliver parcels safely and efficiently across various terrains, distances, and weather conditions in Muscat, the statement added.

Aramex plans to expand its drone delivery testing across the Middle East region, as well as other core markets where it operates. The company said that it plans to test a multi-modal approach that includes a mix of drones and other electric and autonomous vehicles for last-mile deliveries.

Alaa Saoudi, chief operating officer – express at Aramex, said: “We believe the next generation of last-mile solutions, including drones and autonomous vehicles, will be a game-changer as it ensures efficient delivery while being eco-friendly. Through the successful drone delivery testing with UVL Robotics, we have proven that these automated modes of delivery will enable us to further enhance the speed, accessibility, and reliability of package deliveries, especially to remote areas with hard-to-reach terrain. In addition, the program will support our sustainability ambitions to significantly cut our greenhouse gas emissions and reach carbon neutrality by 2030.”

Angad Singh, global director – innovation of Aramex, added that “the autonomous drone technology provided by UVL Robotics could potentially cut transit times by half in complex routes.”

“This means we can now add more value for our customers and consignees as we can accelerate the delivery of packages across different sectors including e-commerce, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals amongst others,” he said.

Since 2017, Aramex has been testing and adopting electric vehicles as a greener alternative to its fleet.

Earlier this year, the company also announced that it integrated geolocation technology firm, what3words into its retail application programming interface platform.

Read: Aramex, what3words build on partnership to enhance last-mile delivery