AlShrouq Express is expanding its investment in artificial intelligence and advanced logistics technology as it develops the next generation of autonomous vehicle and drone delivery solutions.
The Saudi logistics company is building on its existing operations, technology infrastructure and previous experience with autonomous delivery to develop an integrated system where traditional couriers, autonomous vehicles and drones can work together.
Building on Autonomous Delivery Experience
AlShrouq Express has previously tested autonomous vehicle delivery through a pilot conducted with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and NDU within Saudi Arabia’s technology ecosystem.
During the pilot, each autonomous vehicle completed more than 60 deliveries per day, giving the company operational experience in using autonomous vehicles for last-mile delivery in real-world environments.
The company is now developing its autonomous delivery technology further through advances in artificial intelligence, automation, navigation and smart fleet management.
The goal is to improve the accuracy, reliability and efficiency of autonomous delivery vehicles while enabling them to operate alongside existing logistics operations.
Drone Delivery Trials Planned
Alongside its autonomous vehicle programme, AlShrouq Express is in the final development stages of a drone delivery solution.
The company is combining multiple technologies and systems to develop an aerial delivery model designed to be practical, cost-efficient and scalable.
AlShrouq Express plans to begin trials of both its new autonomous delivery technology and drone delivery solution in the coming months.
Connecting New Technology to Existing Operations
A central part of the company’s strategy is integrating these technologies into its existing logistics infrastructure rather than developing them as standalone systems.
At the centre is AlShrouq Delivery, the company’s proprietary delivery management platform. The system supports operations across Saudi Arabia and Qatar, serving more than 4,000 clients and supporting over 50,000 deliveries every day.
The autonomous vehicle and drone solutions are being designed to connect directly with AlShrouq Delivery. This would allow different delivery methods to be coordinated through a single technology platform.
The company says its established logistics operation will provide an environment where these technologies can be tested, refined and scaled.
Preparing for the Next Stage of Delivery
As regulatory frameworks for autonomous and drone delivery continue to develop, AlShrouq Express is preparing its technology, infrastructure and operational capabilities for potential wider commercial deployment, subject to the required regulatory approvals.
The investment is also part of the company’s strategy to develop proprietary technology and intellectual property alongside its logistics business.
By combining real-world delivery operations with proprietary software, artificial intelligence, autonomous vehicles and drones, AlShrouq Express is working toward an integrated model for last-mile delivery.
The company’s initial focus is Saudi Arabia, with potential expansion across the Middle East and international markets as the technology and regulatory environment develops.
