Drones will begin delivering groceries and medications in Almaty

A pilot project for drone-based delivery is launching in Almaty — the first of its kind in Kazakhstan. On December 26, the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan and Freedom Lifestyle signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the development of innovative delivery services using unmanned aerial vehicles.

The document serves as the foundation for the joint launch of pilot projects aimed at creating modern urban infrastructure and digital logistics solutions. New delivery formats will be tested in real-world conditions with a focus on safety and convenience for residents.

The parties agreed on cooperation regarding financing, organization, and integration of drone delivery services into digital products. Starting in early 2025, Freedom Lifestyle is assembling a team of drone operators and conducting technology testing in its own R&D laboratory, Freedom X.

The Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development will establish regulatory conditions, ensure safety, and coordinate the implementation of new technologies in the urban environment. The state plans to create transparent rules for scaling the project.

According to Gizzat Baitursynov, Chairman of the Committee for Digital Assets and Breakthrough Technologies, the pilot projects will provide an opportunity to test innovations, develop regulatory solutions, and lay the groundwork for further expansion.

The pilot launch is scheduled for the period from January to March 2026. As part of the project, drones will be used to deliver food, medicines, and everyday goods. The unmanned aerial vehicles will be able to transport cargo weighing up to 10 kilograms over distances of up to 3 kilometers from two points located in the upper and middle parts of the city.

Special attention is being paid to flight safety: the drones are equipped with an automatic return system, a parachute-based safety system, and are capable of continuing flight in the event of signal loss. Routes are primarily planned over green zones and parks to minimize risks to the population.

The project aims to improve the quality and accessibility of logistics services, with the prospect of expanding drone delivery not only in cities but also in remote settlements.

Source: Gov.kz