ADNOC, AD Ports Group, Multi Level Group, and e& have signed a collaboration agreement aimed at exploring the implementation of transport logistics operations using eVTOLs for cargo operations to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs and carbon emissions.

The project is being implemented with the support of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council, Abu Dhabi Mobility, the Civil Aviation Authority, and the Cyber Security Council, with the aim of enhancing Abu Dhabi's position as a leading global destination for air, land and sea transport and logistics.

As part of the collaboration agreement, the entities will explore opportunities to advance sustainable mobility solutions and deploy innovative technologies, and address transportation and logistics requirements for the petroleum services sector, both on land and at sea. Additionally, the entities will exchange knowledge on harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) solutions with the aim of enhancing local services in these vital sectors, while promoting sustainable energy practices.

Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal in Port Zayed, part of AD Ports Group, will collaborate with partners to provide logistical support by leveraging its infrastructure and ensuring the necessary preparations are in place to enhance sustainability and technological development plans, in line with the group’s efforts towards supporting the UAE’s technological transformation efforts.

Operations will be conducted through a group of Multi Level Group subsidiaries under the Advanced Mobility Hub (AMH) umbrella. These include Wings Logistics for the provision of drone services for passenger and cargo transportation, Space Falcon for drone surveillance for special missions such as firefighting and inspection, and Vertihub and its subsidiary Unified Aviation for infrastructure operations and port audits, as well as ground support and operational services for airports. Associated services and infrastructure will also be supplied by Connected Vehicles for Charging Points, which will provide connected vehicles for smart charging services, and Emirates Academy for Training and Education Programs, delivering training and education programmes to enhance national UAV knowledge and expertise.

Multi Level Group’s Emrit Academy, has contributed to enhancing national capabilities through a partnership with the College of Technology and Higher Education that aims to train UAE Nationals in advanced technology skills. The UAE Ambassadors programme includes training and education to foster expertise in specialised and innovative industries such as drone logistics, enhancing human development and opportunities for Emirati students.

His Excellency Abdulla Mohammed Al Marzouqi, Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), said: “The signing of this agreement marks a pivotal step in promoting innovation in the air transport sector, using autonomous aircraft to deliver advanced logistics solutions. As the regulator of the air transport sector in Abu Dhabi, we are committed to supporting initiatives that improve operational efficiency and reduce carbon emissions in this vital sector. This agreement embodies our commitment, with our strategic partners, to realise Abu Dhabi's vision as a leader in innovation and advanced technology, contributing to enhancing the emirate's competitiveness on the global stage.”

Dr Mohammed Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the UAE Government Cyber Security Council, said: “This strategic partnership between ADNOC Group, Abu Dhabi Ports Group, Multi Level Group, and e& represents an important step in enhancing cybersecurity and protecting digital infrastructure. Alongside the development of smart infrastructure at national and regional levels, this partnership strengthens collaboration to address growing cyber threats and deliver innovative solutions. We are also working together to develop unified international standards to ensure that AI is used in a responsible and ethical manner in the field of cybersecurity, increasing our ability to address future challenges.”

This cooperation follows the signing of a strategic partnership between Multi Level Technology Group and e& to provide the supply chain sector with the necessary infrastructure and advanced communication services, especially in the field of fifth generation (5G) private network technologies, for UAV operation. The strategic partnership will leverage e&’s extensive experience in next-generation connectivity, while also enabling collaboration on joint investments to provide operational systems such as control, command and support centres. The agreement also includes  scope for collaboration on the integration of innovative solutions such as artificial intelligence and the possibility of connecting industries in the Middle East and Africa under a technological umbrella.

Through this partnership, ADNOC, Abu Dhabi Ports Group, e& and Multi Level Group aim to provide sustainable and effective solutions that support the UAE's vision for safe, affordable, accessible and sustainable transport and logistics systems and infrastructure. The partnership will be implemented under the guidance of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council, the Civil Aviation Authority, and the Cyber Security Council to ensure the highest levels of safety and security on par with international quality standards.