Matternet get approval for drone deliveries in Saudi Arabia

RIYADH: Matternet, the world’s leading developer of urban drone delivery systems, announced Monday its M2 drone has been approved for operations in Saudi Arabia.

The Kingdom’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) granted the certification after determining the M2’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Type Certification issued by the U.S. met GACA airworthiness standards.

Matternet received FAA Type Certification for its M2 drone in September 2022.

“We are proud to have received this acceptance from GACA and are honored that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia recognizes our dedication to safety and operational excellence,” said Andreas Raptopoulos, Founder and CEO of Matternet.

“The Middle East is an exciting region for drone delivery, and Saudi Arabia represents the largest economy. Riyadh will have autonomous drone delivery as a new layer of city infrastructure, enabling ultra-fast, cost-efficient, zero-emissions delivery for its businesses and residents.”

Since entering the Middle East market in 2021 through a partnership with the Abu Dhabi Department of Health to provide city-wide medical delivery, Matternet has expanded its global footprint. The company launched the world’s longest urban drone delivery route in Zurich, Switzerland, in 2022 and entered the home delivery market in Silicon Valley in 2024.

“We have seen rapid growth in the development and population of cities such as Riyadh,” said Jason Secore, Matternet’s Chief Financial Officer. “This will create a greater need for delivery and lead to mounting pressure on the current infrastructure to keep up with demand. Drone delivery will play a key role in managing these challenges in a timely and scalable manner.”

Matternet plans to continue scaling operations throughout the United States, Europe, and the Middle East in 2025. The company is committed to ensuring its drone technology exceeds regulatory standards to encourage mass adoption and drive the industry forward.

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