Saudi Arabia launches its first trial of drone parcel delivery trial
Saudi Arabia launches its first trial of drone parcel delivery trial
Saudi Arabia launches its first trial of drone parcel delivery trial
Saudi Arabia launches its first trial of drone parcel delivery trial

Saudi postal drones deliver innovation as sector takes off for 'new horizons'


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Saudi Arabia has carried out a pilot trial to deliver postal parcels using drones, in a move officials say could transform the kingdom’s logistics and postal services.

The test, an effort between the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) and the Transport General Authority, was conducted on Thursday, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Rumaih Al Rumaih, vice minister of Transport and Logistics Services, said the introduction of drone technology represented a major leap forward for the postal sector. He added that it will “open new horizons” for expanding delivery services and developing innovative solutions aligned with Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation goals.

The pilot is part of the kingdom’s wider strategy to enhance efficiency in postal and logistics services, ensuring they keep pace with fast-evolving global trends while meeting customer needs, Mr Al Rumaih added.

The GACA has recently updated its aviation safety regulations in line with guidance from the International Civil Aviation Organisation and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, laying the groundwork for wider adoption of drone applications in the kingdom, the SPA reported.

The drone trial is also part of broader Vision 2030 efforts to integrate advanced technologies into daily life.

During this year's Hajj season, Saudi Arabia used drones to monitor pilgrims and ensure public safety.

Pharaoh's curse

British aristocrat Lord Carnarvon, who funded the expedition to find the Tutankhamun tomb, died in a Cairo hotel four months after the crypt was opened.
He had been in poor health for many years after a car crash, and a mosquito bite made worse by a shaving cut led to blood poisoning and pneumonia.
Reports at the time said Lord Carnarvon suffered from “pain as the inflammation affected the nasal passages and eyes”.
Decades later, scientists contended he had died of aspergillosis after inhaling spores of the fungus aspergillus in the tomb, which can lie dormant for months. The fact several others who entered were also found dead withiin a short time led to the myth of the curse.

Hurricanes 31-31 Lions

Wellington Hurricanes: 
Tries: Gibbins, Laumape, Goosen, Fifita tries, Barrett
Conversions: Barrett (4)
Penalties: Barrett

British & Irish Lions:
Tries: Seymour (2), North
Conversions: Biggar (2)
Penalties: Biggar (4)

The burning issue

The internal combustion engine is facing a watershed moment – major manufacturer Volvo is to stop producing petroleum-powered vehicles by 2021 and countries in Europe, including the UK, have vowed to ban their sale before 2040. The National takes a look at the story of one of the most successful technologies of the last 100 years and how it has impacted life in the UAE. 

Read part four: an affection for classic cars lives on

Read part three: the age of the electric vehicle begins

Read part two: how climate change drove the race for an alternative 

Updated: September 05, 2025, 9:22 AM