Abu Dhabi has inaugurated a central control room dedicated to overseeing autonomous vehicle operations across the emirate, a move that brings all licensed AV providers under a single supervisory infrastructure for the first time.
The facility was launched by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, under the supervision of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council. The opening was attended by Sheikh Hamdan bin Saeed bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, and Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of DMT.
At its core is AViTOMS, an integrated platform for the operation and testing of autonomous vehicles that enables real-time tracking of locations, speeds, and routes. The system also handles trip recording and analysis, emergency response coordination with relevant authorities, permit issuance, and route approvals. Periodic data reports are generated to support routing decisions and operational efficiency.
“The inauguration of the central control room represents a key milestone in the development of the regulatory framework for autonomous vehicles in Abu Dhabi. It responds to the rapid adoption of smart mobility technologies, which require an advanced supervisory system to ensure real-time monitoring and efficient risk management. Through this control room, we establish an integrated approach combining technical capabilities and regulatory frameworks, enhancing the emirate’s readiness to operate autonomous vehicles within a safe and organised environment that builds trust and road safety,” Dr Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of ITC said in a statement.
“The centre’s initiatives reflect a significant shift toward an integrated digital services model that strengthens Abu Dhabi’s leadership in the smart transportation sector,” Hamad Adel Al Afeefi Executive Director of the Intelligent Transportation Systems Sector added.
The control room covers all autonomous vehicle services run by licensed operators in Abu Dhabi, giving regulators a single point of oversight as the sector continues to grow.
