LODD Autonomous, February 23, 2026 - DHL Express has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UAE-based LODD Autonomous to explore the integration of the “Hili” unmanned aircraft into its fleet network. The agreement will see teams from both companies conduct joint operational workshops aimed at identifying priority routes and evaluating drone delivery use cases across the UAE.
Packie Spiga, Vice President of Network Operations for the Middle East and North Africa at DHL Express, said “We have been able to maintain our strong market position as a global leader in international express delivery thanks to our speed and efficiency. Traffic congestion is one of the biggest challenges in rapidly growing regions like the UAE. Innovations like the Hili drones offer a sustainable solution to meet increasing demand while maintaining high service quality.”
Rashid Al Mannai, CEO of LODD Autonomous, added: “Our partnership with DHL Express reflects the UAE’s commitment to leading advanced air transport and smart logistics globally. The Hili drone is manufactured in the UAE and was specifically designed to address the region’s operational challenges, from high urban density to long-distance transport requirements. This collaboration positions the UAE at the forefront of autonomous cargo operations and supports its future-focused infrastructure strategy.”
Through the planned operational workshops, both companies will focus on route identification, payload optimization, delivery time reduction, and enhanced system interoperability to ensure safe and reliable expansion of drone-based cargo services.
LODD Hili drone
Founded in 2023 in the UAE, LODD Autonomous specializes in next-generation autonomous air transport solutions aimed at transforming freight logistics. The Hili drone is designed for mid- and last-stage unmanned cargo delivery, featuring a maximum payload capacity of 250 kg, vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capability, and a range of up to 700 km with a 30-minute reserve. With a maximum operating altitude of 14,000 feet, it is engineered to perform efficiently in demanding environmental conditions.
DHL Express has operated in the UAE for 50 years and currently manages approximately 40 locations across the country, including service centers, gateways, and facilities. Its local fleet comprises more than 350 vehicles, while globally the company operates over 150 flights daily from the UAE using its dedicated aircraft fleet.
Packie Spiga, Vice President of Network Operations for the Middle East and North Africa at DHL Express, said “We have been able to maintain our strong market position as a global leader in international express delivery thanks to our speed and efficiency. Traffic congestion is one of the biggest challenges in rapidly growing regions like the UAE. Innovations like the Hili drones offer a sustainable solution to meet increasing demand while maintaining high service quality.”
Rashid Al Mannai, CEO of LODD Autonomous, added: “Our partnership with DHL Express reflects the UAE’s commitment to leading advanced air transport and smart logistics globally. The Hili drone is manufactured in the UAE and was specifically designed to address the region’s operational challenges, from high urban density to long-distance transport requirements. This collaboration positions the UAE at the forefront of autonomous cargo operations and supports its future-focused infrastructure strategy.”
Through the planned operational workshops, both companies will focus on route identification, payload optimization, delivery time reduction, and enhanced system interoperability to ensure safe and reliable expansion of drone-based cargo services.
LODD Hili drone
Founded in 2023 in the UAE, LODD Autonomous specializes in next-generation autonomous air transport solutions aimed at transforming freight logistics. The Hili drone is designed for mid- and last-stage unmanned cargo delivery, featuring a maximum payload capacity of 250 kg, vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capability, and a range of up to 700 km with a 30-minute reserve. With a maximum operating altitude of 14,000 feet, it is engineered to perform efficiently in demanding environmental conditions.
DHL Express has operated in the UAE for 50 years and currently manages approximately 40 locations across the country, including service centers, gateways, and facilities. Its local fleet comprises more than 350 vehicles, while globally the company operates over 150 flights daily from the UAE using its dedicated aircraft fleet.
See also |
LODD Autonomous Hili
DHL 
Helicopters UAV & Drones 
