Abu Dhabi to Launch Electric Seagliders for Coastal Travel by 2028

Abu Dhabi is preparing to introduce a new coastal transportation system using fully electric Seagliders by 2028. The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), and VERSA Advanced Maritime Services (VERSA) have signed an agreement to support this major mobility project.

The partnership aims to improve coastal connectivity across the emirate with advanced and environmentally friendly solutions. The first phase will focus on routes between Abu Dhabi City and the Al Dhafra Region. Later, the service is expected to expand across Abu Dhabi and potentially to other parts of the UAE.

Seagliders are Wing-in-Ground (WIG) effect craft that travel just above the sea surface. These vessels are fully electric, high-speed, and zero-emission, offering a cleaner alternative to traditional marine transport while significantly reducing travel time.

VERSA, the UAE’s first Seaglider operator, has been developing the project since 2022. The company confirmed that operations are planned to begin in 2028.

As part of the agreement, the partners will carry out feasibility studies and market analysis to assess the operational, commercial, and environmental aspects of Seaglider deployment. They will also explore route planning, scheduling, and potential operational models in line with Abu Dhabi’s wider tourism and development goals.

His Excellency Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said the initiative supports sustainable growth and improves experiences for both residents and international visitors. He added that adopting advanced mobility solutions reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to smart city development and green technologies.

Dr Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), said the agreement is an important step in expanding smart and sustainable mobility across land, air, and sea. He noted that the project will help enhance connectivity while reducing the environmental impact of marine transport, and that the service will be designed to integrate smoothly with Abu Dhabi’s wider transport network.

Sheikha Alyazia Bint Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Chairperson and Owner of VERSA Advanced Maritime Services, said the Seaglider project is about redefining coastal mobility in the UAE. She stated that the partnership will help turn innovation into clean and fast transport infrastructure built for the emirate.

DCT Abu Dhabi said the project also supports the emirate’s Tourism Strategy 2030, which focuses on sustainable tourism growth and long-term development.