Deadline set for Dubai's Dh6.3 million self-driving transport competition

The emirate is gearing up for 25 per cent of all trips to be made in self-driving transport by 2030

Driverless vehicles could be seen on the roads soon. Courtesy: Dubai Media Office

A deadline of August 31 has been set for entries to this year’s Dubai World Self-Driving Transport Challenge.

There are prizes of up to Dh6.3 million up for grabs at the annual event, which is organised by Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

The aim of the challenge is to encourage industry leaders, start-ups and the education sector to tackle transport challenges faced by cities around the globe.

The event, which is in its second year, is seen as a key to plans to have 25 per cent of all trips in Dubai being made in self-driving transport by 2030.

“The theme of the second round of the Self-Driving Transport Challenge covers ground transport means and drones among others,” said Ahmed Bahrozyan, chair of the organising committee.

“The success of the inaugural edition was a great impetus for us to continue with this challenge.

“The second edition promises to be highly competitive and fits well with Dubai’s pioneering efforts to embrace autonomous mobility technology at all levels, which in turn will support Dubai’s sustainable growth.”

Submissions will be assessed by a jury with the winners announced in the final quarter of 2020.

Next year’s challenge will focus on the practical test stage.