The Abu Dhabi AI Patrol Boats project is now in testing as the emirate moves to improve maritime safety. Authorities have started trials of new driverless patrol boats powered by artificial intelligence.
The vessels are about seven metres long and can operate without onboard crews. Officials say the goal is to make monitoring faster, safer, and more accurate across inland waterways.
The project is being developed by Integrated Transport Centre in partnership with Smart and Autonomous Systems Council, Abu Dhabi Investment Office, Blue Gulf Group, and Abu Dhabi Maritime.
The Abu Dhabi AI Patrol Boats trials focus on testing how well the vessels perform in real conditions. Officials are checking if they can support patrol work and enforce laws without human crews on board.
Advanced control systems allow the boats to move and monitor areas on their own. These systems can help detect issues and ensure that all users follow rules set by authorities.
Once testing ends, the boats are expected to enter regular service. They could play a key role in daily patrol duties and help reduce risks on busy waterways.
The Abu Dhabi AI Patrol Boats project is part of a wider plan to grow smart mobility. Leaders in the emirate are working to bring more artificial intelligence into transport systems.
Officials believe this will improve efficiency and reduce human error. It can also help save time and resources in long-term operations.
The project supports Abu Dhabi’s goal to become a global hub for innovation. The emirate has already made strong progress in using advanced technology across many sectors.
The work is supervised by the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council. It also involves close coordination with Abu Dhabi Maritime to ensure safety rules are followed.
The move follows earlier steps in the maritime sector. ADNOC Logistics & Services launched its own AI-powered vessels last year. These ships are built for remote operations and are expected to be ready by late 2026.
They will use satellite systems and hybrid power. Operators will control them from a central hub in Mussafah, improving efficiency and oversight.
At the same time, Abu Dhabi Ship Building is working on new patrol vessels. These are being built for the Critical Infrastructure and Coastal Protection Authority.
The contract, signed in 2023, is valued at AED 175 million. It includes advanced boats designed for rescue and patrol work near the coast.
These vessels include the 120 Fast Inshore Platform and the 160 Inshore Tactical Engagement Platform. Both are designed for quick response and long search operations.
The Abu Dhabi AI Patrol Boats trials show a clear trend. More maritime systems are becoming automated as authorities seek better safety and control.
Experts say autonomous systems can help improve response time. They also reduce risks for human crews in difficult conditions.
The emirate is also expanding driverless technology beyond the sea. At the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Summit held last November, 29 agreements were signed. These deals aim to bring driverless systems into sectors like healthcare, transport, and e-commerce.
Driverless cars are already active in the city. Services run by Uber and WeRide have started robotaxi operations. These vehicles use level-four autonomy, meaning they can drive without human input in most cases.
In March, more robotaxis were added by Autogo. These services are now active in key areas like Yas Island.
There are plans to expand coverage to Al Reem Island, Al Maryah Island, and Al Saadiyat Island.
The Abu Dhabi AI Patrol Boats project shows how fast the emirate is moving in smart transport. It combines safety, technology, and innovation in one plan.
As testing continues, officials expect better monitoring, faster response, and stronger law enforcement on the water.
