Abu Dhabi-based manufacturer Monarch Holding and Chinese company EHang Holdings have signed an agreement to establish the first facility in the Middle East and North Africa to manufacture and operate sustainable, electric-powered aircraft and drones for passengers and cargo transportation in Abu Dhabi.
The announcement is in line with Abu Dhabi Industrial Strategy’s initiatives, including Industry 4.0’s innovative technologies, new circular economy regulatory framework as well as green policies and incentives to continue its transition towards a smart, circular, and sustainable economy.
The cooperation aims to manufacture sustainable electric aircrafts and drones, establish a command-and-control center to manage the urban air mobility autonomously and build infrastructure, vertiports (take-off and landing platforms), and facilities for operating electric aircrafts and drones, as well as providing opportunities to qualify and train Emirati talent. The project contributes to revitalising markets and supporting local products by facilitating the flow of goods and merchandise to sales outlets, ports, and airports, enhancing trade.
The partnership will help establish an advanced infrastructure for vertiports and an autonomous flight management system operated by artificial intelligence, supporting sustainable and electric-powered commercial aircraft and drones, through cooperation with local entities, enabling Abu Dhabi to adopt urban aviation technologies. The project, which focuses on improving smart and sustainable mobility, will enhance Abu Dhabi’s position as the smartest city in the Middle East and North Africa.
