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UAE makes history as first homegrown cargo drone takes flight

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The UAE just took another giant leap into the future of logistics. On Thursday, Abu Dhabi-based Lodd Autonomous successfully launched the country’s first homegrown hybrid cargo drone, marking a major milestone for advanced air mobility and same-day delivery innovation.

The event, dubbed the Hili First Flight Ceremony, took place at Emirates Falcon Aviation in Al Ain and was attended by Sheikh Zayed bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, along with senior officials, royals, and members of the media.

“This is not just Lodd’s milestone, it’s a UAE milestone,” said Rashid Al Mannai, CEO of Lodd Autonomous.

The aircraft, named Hili, is a hybrid VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) drone capable of carrying up to 250 kilograms across nearly 700 km. It combines electric and internal combustion power, offering impressive efficiency and sustainability for aerial logistics.

Al Mannai revealed that Lodd will now embark on a six-month flight test campaign, followed by certification with the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), a process expected to take two years. Once approved, Hili could revolutionise logistics by enabling same-day deliveries across vast distances.

To further boost its capabilities, Lodd has signed cooperation agreements with ST Engineering Commercial Aerospace and Skyports Drone Services, exploring integration and operational applications for the aircraft.

Looking ahead, AI will be central to Lodd’s vision. “AI automation will allow one pilot to operate hundreds of drones simultaneously,” Al Mannai explained.

“The system will manage everything, from flight scheduling to autonomous ground loading, turning futuristic logistics into everyday reality.”

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

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Will UAE petrol prices rise in August? Here’s what we know

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UAE motorists won’t have long to wait to find out whether fuel prices will increase in August, with the Fuel Price Committee set to announce the new rates on Thursday, July 31.

The revised petrol and diesel prices will take effect from August 1.

Will fuel prices go up?

After a welcome price cut in July, the outlook for August is less certain.

Global oil prices initially fell below $70 a barrel earlier this month, raising hopes of another reduction. However, prices have since rebounded sharply, clouding the picture for motorists.

Brent crude briefly climbed above $100 a barrel, while US benchmark WTI rose to nearly us$92. Abu Dhabi’s Murban crude also surged past us$105, reflecting renewed strength in global energy markets.

Because UAE fuel prices are based on average international oil prices over the month, the late-July rally could limit or even reverse last month’s cuts.

Current UAE fuel prices

Motorists are currently paying:

  • Super 98: Dh3.40 per litre
  • Special 95: Dh3.29 per litre
  • E-Plus 91: Dh3.21 per litre
  • Diesel: Dh3.60 per litre

These rates were introduced in July after global oil prices eased earlier in the summer.

How UAE fuel prices are set

The UAE reviews petrol and diesel prices every month based on average global crude oil and refined fuel prices.

The August rates will be announced on July 31 through official government channels and will come into effect the following day.

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UAE traffic fine: Why leaving your engine idling can cost you Dh500

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Abu Dhabi Police are urging motorists to switch off their engines and take their keys whenever leaving their vehicles, warning that even brief stops can increase the risk of theft, fires and other safety hazards.

The advisory applies to drivers stopping at shops, petrol stations, ATMs or mosques, where some motorists continue to leave vehicles unattended with the engine running.

Safety risks

Police said leaving a running vehicle unattended creates an opportunity for theft and could also lead to mechanical problems or fire-related incidents.

Motorists were also reminded never to leave children, especially infants, inside a running vehicle, describing the practice as a serious threat to their safety.

Traffic laws

Abu Dhabi Police also highlighted that UAE traffic laws prohibit leaving an unattended vehicle with its engine running.

Drivers who fail to comply with traffic rules and official instructions can face a Dh500fine under the Federal Traffic Law.

Authorities urged motorists to adopt safe habits by turning off the engine, removing the key and locking the vehicle every time they step away, no matter how briefly.

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Dubai Airports unveils smart gate pre-check for passengers

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Passengers travelling through Dubai International Airport (DXB) can now check if they’re eligible to use Smart Gates before reaching passport control.

Dubai Airports has introduced the new Smart Gates Pre-Eligibility Verification service in partnership with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) to make immigration faster and reduce waiting times.

How it works

Travellers can instantly verify their Smart Gate eligibility through the Pocket Flights platform or by scanning QR codes placed across airport terminals and boarding gates.

The service lets passengers know in advance whether they can use the automated passport gates, helping them avoid uncertainty at immigration.

Faster airport experience

Dubai Airports says the new feature is part of its ongoing efforts to streamline passenger journeys and improve the overall airport experience.

By allowing travellers to confirm eligibility before reaching passport control, the airport aims to speed up immigration processing and make travel through DXB more seamless for millions of passengers each year.

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