Ground-services provider dnata is testing autonomous wheelchair technology at Dubai International Airport (DXB) as a potential addition to its accessibility services. The trial is intended to give passengers with disabilities or other mobility needs greater independence when travelling through the airport, while complementing existing assistance provided by dnata staff.
The technology is being tested in Concourse D of Terminal 1, with a possible extension to Terminal 3. The wheelchair uses four light-detection-and-ranging cameras to navigate from a lounge or check-in area towards the passenger’s gate. A manual override allows passengers travelling alone to stop the vehicle during the journey.
The trial was presented alongside accessibility specialists and technology providers at AccessAbilities Expo 2026 in Dubai. No decision has been disclosed on the number of units involved, the trial duration, passenger eligibility, safety certification or a permanent service rollout.
dnata is also adding three ambulifts, 24 customised accessibility buggies and three sets of battery-operated, stackable wheelchairs. The equipment is intended to improve transfers across longer terminal distances and support the company’s existing accessibility operations.
dnata assists about two million passengers requiring mobility or other accessibility support at DXB each year. The autonomous wheelchair programme is therefore being assessed as a supplement to, rather than a replacement for, the current assisted-travel service.