Abu Dhabi electric Seagliders are set to become part of the emirate’s coastal transport network by 2028 after key government entities signed a new agreement to explore next-generation mobility solutions. The initiative signals a major step toward cleaner, faster, and more sustainable maritime travel.
The agreement was signed by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, and Abu Dhabi Mobility. Together, the partners will assess the feasibility of deploying electric Seagliders across Abu Dhabi’s coastline.
Abu Dhabi electric Seagliders are hybrid vehicles designed to operate both on water and above it, combining maritime and aviation technologies. They use electric propulsion to reduce emissions while offering higher speeds than conventional boats, making them suitable for coastal passenger transport.
Officials said the agreement supports Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to diversify mobility options while reducing environmental impact. The project aligns with the emirate’s long-term sustainability goals and its ambition to adopt innovative transport technologies across land, air, and sea.
Under the plan, feasibility studies and pilot programmes will be conducted over the coming years. These assessments will focus on safety standards, infrastructure requirements, regulatory frameworks, and potential commercial routes linking key coastal destinations.
Abu Dhabi electric Seagliders could enhance connectivity between urban centres, tourist hubs, and island destinations. By offering a low-emission alternative to traditional marine transport, the service is expected to appeal to both residents and visitors while easing pressure on existing road and ferry networks.
The initiative also reflects Abu Dhabi’s push to attract advanced mobility investment and innovation. ADIO officials said the project strengthens the emirate’s position as a testbed for future transport solutions and supports the growth of high-tech industries.
If approved, Abu Dhabi electric Seagliders would begin operations by 2028, placing the emirate among the first global cities to integrate electric wing-in-ground-effect vehicles into public transport. Authorities say further announcements are expected as technical evaluations progress.
