The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport in Abu Dhabi, has launched a pilot project in partnership with talabat to advance the adoption of electric mobility solutions across the Emirate.
The initiative focuses on expanding the use of electric vehicles in last-mile delivery services through the development of a dedicated network for battery charging and swapping at strategic locations. It aligns with ITC’s broader mandate to develop a smart, low-emission, and sustainable mobility ecosystem in Abu Dhabi.
Infrastructure to support electric last-mile delivery
During the pilot phase, the project will assess the feasibility of expanding talabat’s electric mobility fleet while enhancing its operational efficiency.
Dedicated zones for electric vehicles have been established in high-demand areas, designed to meet drivers’ operational needs and enable quick, seamless battery swapping.
These zones represent some of the most advanced dedicated facilities for two-wheeled electric delivery vehicles in the Emirate, providing safe, accessible, and purpose-built infrastructure that enhances operational reliability and rider confidence.
The project supports Abu Dhabi’s environmental objectives by facilitating the transition from petrol-powered delivery vehicles to electric bikes and maintaining high standards of safety and performance, including range, speed, control, and rider comfort. Early field trials and structured feedback sessions with delivery drivers have delivered encouraging initial results.
The collaboration also marks an important milestone in talabat’s sustainability journey, reinforcing its commitment to reducing the carbon footprint of its delivery operations and advancing cleaner transport solutions in line with broader climate action goals.
Eng. Abdulla Hamad Alaryani Acting Executive Director of the Planning and Strategic Affairs Sector ITC
“The pilot partnership reflects ITC’s commitment to accelerating the transition towards electric mobility in Abu Dhabi. By working with talabat, we aim to deliver advanced and sustainable infrastructure that supports operational needs while maintaining the highest standards of safety and efficiency. The initiative contributes directly to emissions reduction and strengthens the smart mobility ecosystem, with the potential to scale across the sector, subject to regulatory approval.”
May Youssef, Senior Director of Public Affairs, Corporate Communications, and Sustainability at talabat, noted that “Our partnership with the Integrated Transport Centre represents a key pillar in our efforts to advance electric mobility within last-mile delivery. Through this pilot, we are testing robust infrastructure that supports wider EV adoption, prioritizes the safety of drivers and road users, and significantly reduces emissions. It reinforces our commitment to building a smarter, more sustainable delivery ecosystem in Abu Dhabi.”
