Abu Dhabi plans to introduce innovative sea glider operations across the emirate by 2028, following the signing of a major agreement on Friday.
Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT Abu Dhabi), Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), Integrated Transport Center (Abu Dhabi Mobility) and VERSA Advanced Maritime Services (VERSA) have signed an agreement in this regard.
The Sea Glider – a WIG (Wing-in-Ground) effect craft – is a fully electric, high-speed, zero-emission vessel that sails just above the sea surface, significantly reducing travel times. VERSA, the UAE’s first sea glider operator, has been developing the project since 2022 and plans to begin operations in 2028.
This agreement represents a collective commitment to streamline coastal transport across Abu Dhabi through advanced and environmentally friendly solutions. Initial plans will focus on routes between Abu Dhabi city and Al Dhafra region, with later stages expected to expand across the emirate and UAE. The initiative will strengthen Abu Dhabi’s economy, tourism sector, infrastructure and regulatory framework, championing national innovation, environmental goals and seamless connectivity, the statement said.
Saleh Mohamed Al Gejri, Director of Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “By adopting advanced and environmentally friendly mobility solutions like Sea Glider, we will not only strengthen connectivity across Abu Dhabi, but also foster sustainable growth and provide unparalleled access to both local communities and international visitors. This partnership underlines our commitment to smart cities and green technology, ensuring the emirate remains a leading destination for innovation and continuously improving quality.” About life and the visitor experience. ”
Areas of cooperation outlined in the agreement include feasibility studies and market analysis of the operational, commercial and environmental aspects of Seaglider deployment. The partners will also consider potential operating models, including routes and schedules, in line with Abu Dhabi’s broader tourism goals.
Dr. Abdullah Hamad Alghferi, Acting Executive Director of the Integrated Transport Center (Abu Dhabi Mobility), said: “This agreement marks an important step in our efforts to extend smart and sustainable mobility across land, air and sea. “Together with Abu Dhabi, we are laying the foundations for introducing innovative low-emission services that reduce the environmental footprint of maritime transport while enhancing connectivity. The Integrated Transport Center (Abu Dhabi Mobility) remains committed to supporting and introducing new modes.” We will provide transport options that are safe, efficient and seamlessly integrated with our extensive network, further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a global leader in sustainable and innovative mobility. ”
VERSA Advanced Maritime Sheikh Aliyazia bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Chairman and Owner of Services “Being the UAE’s first sea glider operator is both an honor and a responsibility. This partnership allows us to transform innovation into clean, fast and clean infrastructure.” Built specifically for the Emirates, and in collaboration with government partners, we are not only developing new means of transportation, but also contributing to shaping a national legacy of sustainable progress and global leadership. ”
Through such collaboration, DCT Abu Dhabi remains committed to achieving the ambitious goals of Tourism Strategy 2030, which prioritizes sustainable growth and strategic development within the emirate, the statement said.
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