Yango Robots Deliver Groceries in Minutes to Dubai’s Sobha Hartland

Editorial Team

Last updated 25-03-2025

4 min

Robotic grocery deliverers begin operating in Sobha Hartland, Dubai, through Yango Group and ROOTS.

These autonomous robots navigate a two-kilometre radius, delivering groceries within thirty minutes.

Florian Jansen from ROOTS calls the initiative a "game changer" for speed and sustainability.

The move supports Dubai's goal of 25% autonomous transport by 2030, reducing emissions.

This partnership enhances local commerce and accelerates Dubai's sustainability objectives.

Dubai residents in Sobha Hartland will see a futuristic shift on their doorstep today, as robotic grocery deliverers begin rolling out across the community. Yango Group, a global technology company, has teamed up with local food retail brand ROOTS to launch autonomous robots that promise to make grocery shopping quicker and greener.

Thanks to Yango Group's brand-new RTA license, Sobha Hartland becomes Dubai's latest spot for automated deliveries. These nifty wheeled robots can navigate tricky routes safely, dodging pedestrians and obstacles along the way. Operating within a two-kilometre radius, they'll make sure your groceries reach your doorstep in less than half an hour. I must say—it's a far cry from my usual week's wait to get fresh veg delivered from my local grocers!

Florian Jansen, the enthusiastic founder of ROOTS, described the move as a "game changer" that will benefit not only customers but also the environment. "We are excited to provide our community in Sobha Hartland with this innovative delivery option from Yango Group," said Jansen. "It's great to see faster deliveries paired with sustainable initiatives. It's another brilliant way to ensure freshly sourced products reach our customers."

Simple enough to try, customers can place their orders via the ROOTS website (go-roots.ae), then choose robot delivery at checkout. Once ready, your tasty bundle—milk, yoghurt, pre-packed salads, fruits and more—will make its way in a temperature-controlled cargo compartment with a generous capacity of 60 litres. Customers receive a notification via WhatsApp letting them know when their delivery bot has arrived outside. It's definitely a leap from traditional doorstep drop-off services.

Designed specifically for challenging environments, these autonomous bots won't be fazed by Dubai's hot summers. With six rugged driving wheels and a soft suspension system, they're able to scale kerbs up to ten centimetres high while cruising round streets. Smart navigation powered by neural networks means the robots recognise traffic lights, road signs, and any potential obstacles on their journey.

The move fits nicely with Dubai's ambitious goal under the Dubai Autonomous Transportation Strategy, aiming to convert 25% of transport in the city to autonomous modes by 2030, ultimately reducing carbon emissions by 30%. Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO of Dubai's Public Transport Agency, made it clear that initiatives like these are important steps toward achieving Dubai's broader vision. "By introducing these self-driving robots, we're enhancing urban living, tackling congestion and ultimately reducing CO₂ emissions. It's a win-win for both residents and local busineses," he commented.

Islam Abdul Karim, Yango Group's Regional Head for the Middle East, said he was delighted with the partnership and the possibilities it creates. "Together we're advancing autonomous delivery technology in Dubai, providing residents with an innovative and effortless shopping experience. Looking ahead, we're eager to expand our collaboration with other local businesses as Dubai moves forward with its sustainability objectives."

Going forward, Yango Group plans to build on these successes through Yango Tech, their newly launched business-to-business AI ecosystem. Providing innovative AI-driven solutions tailored for various industries, the platform promises efficiencies in warehousing, mobility, and of course, the all-important last-mile delivery.

For those unfamiliar, ROOTS is a much-loved local name known for fresh, clean-label groceries. With a commitment to minimal processing and supporting local suppliers, ROOTS makes quality food accessible, encouraging people to eat healthier meals that are better connected to their communities.

Personally, I'm intrigued and rather curious to see the little robo-shoppers in action. Maybe Dubai is on its way to changing home shopping once and for all—or at least making my next grocery run a bit more entertaining.

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