The A2RL Drone Championship returns for Season 2 at UMEX Abu Dhabi, bringing the world’s top AI teams together to push the limits of autonomous flight. Following last year’s historic moment when an AI-powered drone beat a world champion human pilot, Season 2 raises the stakes with new challenges, faster algorithms and latest innovations in aerial autonomy on full display.
21-22 January 2026, Hall 10

EVENT SCHEDULE
Wednesday, 21 January:
09:00 AI Speed Challenge – Teams Session 1
10:00 AI Speed Challenge – Teams Session 2
11:30 FPV Race Qualifiers
12:45 Human vs AI Challenge – Quarterfinals
14:30 Multi-Drone Challenge – Session 1

Thursday, 22 January:
09:00 AI Speed Challenge – Teams Session 3
10:00 AI Speed Challenge – Teams Session 4
11:15 FPV Race Practices
12:15 Human vs AI Challenge – Semifinals & Finals
14:45 Multi-Drone Challenge – Session 2
15:00 Awards Ceremony

Note: Timings subject to change.