A2RL Autonomous drone championship
The A2RL Autonomous Drone Championship is one of the world’s most advanced AI sporting events — where high-speed drone racing meets cutting-edge artificial intelligence.
Unlike traditional drone competitions, this championship features fully autonomous AI pilots competing head-to-head on complex, high-speed tracks without any human control during flight. These races are designed to test how well AI systems can perceive, decide, and adapt in real-time — pushing the boundaries of what machines can do in dynamic, unscripted environments.
A2RL is more than just a race. It’s a global testbed for breakthrough research in robotics, autonomy, and AI safety — with direct applications in mobility, logistics, and real-world decision-making.
We welcome researchers, academic institutions, AI engineers, and drone enthusiasts from around the world to participate. Whether you're advancing the science of autonomy or passionate about the future of AI-driven systems, A2RL is your platform to innovate, test, and showcase what’s next.
Thinking of joining the A2RL Drone Championship for Season 2?
Watch our info-packed webinar to get answers to all your questions.
Join us to become tomorrow's engineers, pilots, and innovators in drone technology!
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In April 2025, Abu Dhabi hosted the inaugural A2RL x DCL Autonomous Drone Championship, setting a global benchmark for AI-powered flight. Fourteen teams from leading universities, research labs, and startups competed across four advanced race formats — including the world’s first large-scale AI vs Human drone showdown. With drones reaching speeds over 150 km/h and flying entirely on AI-powered vision and onboard computing, the competition pushed the boundaries of autonomous aerial racing.
Alongside the championship, the A2RL x DCL STEM Drone Program trained over 100 Emirati students across four locations, equipping them with future-ready skills in AI, robotics, and drone operations—empowering the next generation of innovators to shape the UAE’s growing leadership in AI and advanced air mobility.
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