Dubai Leader Interacts with Live Humanoid Robot in Historic Union House Exhibition
Dubai Embraces Advanced Robotics: The Unitree G1 and REEM Patrol the City
Dubai, a city known for its ambitious technological advancements, has made significant strides in the field of robotics. The latest addition to its roster is the Unitree G1, a humanoid robot that closely mimics human motion and boasts state-of-the-art components [3].
The Unitree G1, standing at 1.32 meters tall and weighing 35 kilograms, is a compact yet highly capable platform showcasing the latest advancements in robotics [4]. It features an 8-core CPU, 3D LiDAR, depth camera, microphone array, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and a powerful lithium battery enabling up to two hours of operation [3].
The Unitree G1 has already made a high-profile appearance at Dubai's Union House, following its showcase at Unitree's new factory in Hangzhou, China, in April [4]. It has demonstrated its ability to engage in basic gestures and non-verbal interactions, further emphasising its potential in public life.
In addition to the Unitree G1, Dubai Police is also utilising REEM, an autonomous humanoid robot developed by PAL Robotics in Spain, as part of their smart policing initiative [5]. REEM stands 1.65 meters tall, moves at 3.1 mph (5 km/h), and is equipped with face recognition, autonomous navigation, and an 8-hour battery [5]. It streams real-time data to the police control center, supporting situational awareness [5].
REEM can currently be found patrolling Dubai Mall, engaging with the public via a touchscreen interface for reporting crimes, paying fines, and accessing information [5]. This initiative is part of Dubai's broader vision to integrate advanced technology and AI into public life.
The UAE government envisions a future where more than 20 billion robots will serve humanity by 2050, along with advances in human augmentation to enhance physical and cognitive abilities [5]. This ambition is reflected in the growing ecosystem hosting international robotics firms and innovation hubs, highlighted by exhibitions and live showcases at venues like the Museum of the Future [2][3].
Dubai's commitment to technological innovation is also evident in the deployment of digital twin traffic technology for adaptive, data-driven traffic management [1]. This system, which helps manage over three million peak-hour vehicles, integrates simulation-based tools aligned with environmental and infrastructure goals [1].
With over 131,000 wealthy individuals expected to settle in the UAE by 2024 [1], the city's focus on robotics and AI is poised to continue. Dubai Future Labs, a key player in this ecosystem, collaborated with Chinese robotics firm Unitree to refine the Unitree G1 robot [4].
As Dubai continues to push the boundaries of technology, the Unitree G1 and REEM are just the beginning of what the city has in store for the future of robotics. The Unitree G1 will join interactive exhibits at Dubai's Museum of the Future, further showcasing the city's commitment to innovation and emerging technologies.
Sources:
- Al Jazeera
- Gulf News
- Unitree Robotics
- ZDNet
- The National
- The Unitree G1's advanced components, such as its 8-core CPU and 3D LiDAR, align it with the city's burgeoning artificial intelligence landscape in Dubai.
- Dubai's technological advancements extend beyond robotics; the city is also harnessing artificial intelligence and technology in innovative ways, like the digital twin traffic technology for adaptive traffic management.
- The integration of robots like the Unitree G1 and REEM in public life, coupled with Dubai's commitment to artificial intelligence, signifies the city's ambitious goal to host over 20 billion robots serving humanity by 2050.
