The Department of Culture and Tourism- Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), and VERSA Advanced Maritime Services (VERSA) have signed an agreement to enhance coastal transportation and connectivity in Abu Dhabi.
The collaboration aims to introduce innovative Seaglider operations across Abu Dhabi by 2028, improving mobility for residents and visitors.
Initial routes will connect Abu Dhabi City and Al Dhafra, later expanding across the emirate and UAE. The initiative supports the economy, tourism, infrastructure, and sustainable innovation while advancing seamless coastal connectivity.
The Seagliders, Wing-in-Ground (WIG) effect craft, are fully electric, high-speed, zero-emission vessels designed to operate just above the sea surface, offering a transformative solution for reducing travel times between coastal destinations. VERSA, the first Seaglider operator in the UAE, has been diligently developing this pioneering project since 2022, with full-scale operations strategically scheduled to commence in 2028.
The newly signed agreement encompasses comprehensive feasibility studies and in-depth market analysis of Seaglider operations, addressing a wide range of commercial, operational, and environmental considerations.
Additionally, the partnership with VERSA will explore optimal routes, detailed scheduling, and sustainable operational models that are carefully aligned with Abu Dhabi’s broader tourism objectives and vision for smart, eco-friendly transportation. This initiative represents a significant step forward in advancing cutting-edge maritime technology while supporting the UAE’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and enhanced connectivity across the region.
Saleh Mohamed Saleh Al Geziry Director General – Tourism DCT Abu Dhabi
“By embracing advanced and environmentally friendly mobility solutions like Seagliders, we are not only enhancing connectivity across Abu Dhabi but also reinforcing our commitment to fostering sustainable growth and delivering unparalleled experiences for both our community and international visitors. This collaboration underscores our dedication to smart city initiatives and green technologies, ensuring the emirate remains a leading destination for innovation, continuously enhancing quality of life and the visitor experience.”
Dr Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), said that, “This agreement marks an important step in our efforts to extend smart and sustainable mobility across land, air and sea. Together with our partners, we are laying the foundations for introducing innovative, low-emission services that will enhance connectivity while reducing the environmental footprint of marine transport.”
Sheikha Alyazia Bint Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Chairperson and Owner of VERSA Advanced Maritime Services, commented that, “When we first envisioned Seagliders in 2022, it wasn’t just about launching a new vessel, it was about rethinking what coastal mobility could mean for our country. Being the UAE’s first Seaglider operator is both an honor and a responsibility. This partnership allows us to transform innovation into infrastructure, clean, fast, and purpose-built for the emirates.”
