Imagine a world where coastal commutes are faster, greener, and quieter. That future is closer than you think, as REGENT Craft, the US-based pioneer of all-electric seagliders, teams up with Abu Dhabi’s Strategic Development Fund (SDF) to bring this cutting-edge technology to the UAE. This groundbreaking partnership promises to redefine sustainable transportation across the Middle East, Africa, and beyond.
A New Era of Sustainable Mobility
REGENT Craft and SDF have inked an initial agreement to establish a joint venture aimed at manufacturing electric seagliders in the UAE. These futuristic vessels, which glide seamlessly over water, are designed to connect coastal destinations for passenger travel, cargo transport, and even emergency response. Once operational, the joint venture will not only produce these innovative vehicles but also provide aftermarket services like maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO).
This collaboration builds on SDF’s initial investment in REGENT in 2023, which was later increased in 2024 as talks for the UAE partnership advanced. The joint venture is expected to further solidify the UAE’s position as a hub for next-generation transportation technologies.
Why the UAE is Betting Big on Seagliders
The UAE’s investment in REGENT Craft is no accident. According to Hamad Al Marar, EDGE Group Managing Director & CEO, this partnership aligns with the UAE’s broader strategy to foster technological innovation and industrial growth. “Our investments in critical sectors drive advancements that enhance the UAE’s industrial capabilities,” he said.
Abdulla Al Jaabari, Managing Director & CEO of SDF, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the transformative potential of REGENT’s technology. “This agreement marks a significant step in our hybrid investment approach, combining international startups with strategic partnerships to develop game-changing technologies,” he added.
REGENT’s CEO, Billy Thalheimer, expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, “We are honored to make Abu Dhabi a center for seaglider manufacturing. This partnership will usher in a new era of sustainable transportation.”
From Rhode Island to Abu Dhabi: A Global Vision
REGENT is already making waves globally, having broken ground on a massive 255,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Rhode Island, set to open in 2026. But the UAE is poised to become a key player in this emerging industry. The partnership with SDF is part of a broader effort to integrate seagliders into the UAE’s transportation network, with plans to launch services as early as 2027.
The company has also signed agreements with the Abu Dhabi Department of Municipalities and Transportation (DOT) and Abu Dhabi Maritime to explore the feasibility of using seagliders for passenger and cargo transport. Additionally, REGENT is collaborating with logistics giant Aramex to assess how seagliders can enhance middle-mile logistics networks.
Economic and Environmental Impact
The introduction of seagliders in the UAE isn’t just about cutting-edge technology—it’s about economic growth and sustainability. REGENT projects that localizing the supply chain and creating high-value jobs could significantly boost the UAE’s GDP over the next decade. Moreover, by leveraging existing dock infrastructure, seagliders offer a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to traditional transportation methods.
As Badr Al-Olama, Director General of ADIO, highlighted, “This partnership advances Abu Dhabi’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industry (SAVI) cluster, solidifying the emirate’s leadership in sustainable transportation solutions.”
With seagliders set to hit UAE waters by 2027, the future of coastal travel is looking brighter—and greener—than ever.
