Abu Dhabi to introduce seaglider services for faster coastal travel by 2028

Abu Dhabi has signed an agreement to introduce seaglider operations across the emirate by 2028, marking a step toward faster and more sustainable coastal transportation. The agreement was signed on Friday by the Integrated Transport Centre, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), and VERSA Advanced Maritime Services.

Under the plan, VERSA — the UAE’s first seaglider operator — will expand cutting-edge seaglider operations across the emirate. Initial routes will focus on connectivity between Abu Dhabi city and the Al Dhafra region, with longer-term plans to expand services across the wider United Arab Emirates. VERSA has been developing the project since 2022.

The agreement reflects a shared commitment to deploying advanced, environmentally friendly mobility solutions to enhance coastal transit. According to a statement, the initiative is positioned to support national innovation objectives, environmental goals, seamless connectivity, and the growth of Abu Dhabi’s economy, tourism sector, infrastructure and regulatory ecosystem.

Sheikh Alyazia Bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Chairperson and Owner of VERSA Advanced Maritime Services, said that when the organisation first envisioned introducing seagliders in 2022, the ambition extended beyond launching a new vessel, focusing instead on redefining maritime mobility in the region.

Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director-General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “By adopting cutting-edge and eco-friendly mobility solutions such as seagliders, we are not only improving connectivity across Abu Dhabi but also reaffirming our commitment to sustainable growth and delivering exceptional experiences for both our community and international visitors. This partnership underscores our dedication to green technology and smart city initiatives, reinforcing the emirate’s position as a leading innovation hub that continues to enhance quality of life and the visitor experience.”

The agreement includes collaboration on feasibility studies and market assessments covering operational, commercial and environmental aspects of seaglider deployment. The partners will also examine potential operational models aligned with Abu Dhabi’s broader tourism strategy, including route planning and scheduling.