DHL LODD MoU marks a step toward integrating LODD’s Hili unmanned aircraft into DHL Express delivery operations in the UAE. The agreement was signed in Abu Dhabi on February 23, 2026. Both companies plan joint workshops to define routes and use cases.
Signing Ceremony Details
Rashid Al Manai, CEO of LODD, and Bachi Spiga, VP Network Operations Middle East & North Africa at DHL Express, signed the memorandum. The pact focuses on last-mile delivery enhancements. Moreover, teams will explore operational integration specifics.
DHL LODD MoU Objectives
Workshops will identify priority routes for unmanned cargo delivery. In addition, the collaboration addresses road congestion challenges in growing regions like the UAE. Consequently, this could improve delivery speed and reliability.
“Speed and reliability are essential to maintaining our strong market position. In fast-growing regions like the UAE, where road congestion poses new challenges, innovations such as LODD’s unmanned Hili aircraft present a sustainable way forward,” said Bachi Spiga, VP Network Operations Middle East and North Africa, DHL Express.
Bachi Spiga, VP Network Operations Middle East and North Africa, DHL Express
“Partnering with DHL Express reflects the UAE’s ambition to lead the world in advanced air mobility and smart logistics,” said Rashid Al Manai, CEO of LODD.
Rashid Al Manai, CEO of LODD
Hili Aircraft Specifications
The Hili unmanned aircraft carries a maximum payload of 250 kg. It accommodates two Euro pallets and features vertical take-off and landing capability. Furthermore, it offers a 700 km range with a 30-minute reserve and a maximum cruise altitude of 14,000 ft.
- Payload: 250 kg
- Range: 700 km (+30 min reserve)
- Altitude: 14,000 ft
- VTOL capability
Company Backgrounds
LODD Autonomous, founded in 2023 in the UAE, develops autonomous systems for cargo logistics. DHL Express has operated in the UAE for 50 years. The company manages 40 locations, over 350 vehicles, and 150 daily flight connections.
Specifically, DHL invests in technologies to meet market demands. Meanwhile, LODD focuses on middle- and last-mile solutions. As a result, this DHL LODD MoU aligns with regional logistics advancements.
Future Outlook
Joint efforts will cover route definition, payload optimization, and system interoperability. Notably, workshops aim for safe and scalable deployment. This DHL LODD MoU could transform UAE logistics amid rising e-commerce demands. Furthermore, it supports sustainable practices in air mobility.
The UAE’s logistics sector continues to evolve with technology adoption. In addition, global players like DHL enhance networks through partnerships. Consequently, consumers may see faster deliveries soon.