Another VTOL hub touches down in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is getting a hybrid VTOL manufacturing hub: Qatar-based smart mobility and logistics provider Barq Group and US-based autonomous aircraft developer Elroy Air will invest USD 200 mn in a joint venture (JV) to establish a manufacturing facility for autonomous hybrid vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) cargo vehicles in Abu Dhabi, according to a press release.

The facility will build systems for Elroy’s Chaparral, its flagship aircraft, which it aims to sell to regional commercial and humanitarian clients working in middle-mile logistics. It will also offer maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services.

Autonomous aircraft in demand: Last November, state-owned defense firm Edge Group and US-based defense tech firm Anduril also established a USD 200 mn JV to develop autonomous systems for civil and defense operations for the wider region.

A new solar plant in Sharjah

Snoc commissions first utility-scale solar power facility in emirate: The Sharjah National Oil Corporation (Snoc) commissioned Sharjah’s first 60 MW utility-scale solar power plant, according to a press release. The utility-scale size means electricity generation can be fed directly to the national grid. The energy player also initiated early-stage studies into natural hydrogen as it looks to secure a baseload fuel supply, after recently discovering its second gas reserve from the Hadiba Gas Field.

BCD Global sets up Dubai HQ in first regional expansion

Delhi-based real estate group BCD Global established its regional headquarters in Dubai, marking its entry into the region, according to a press release. The Emirates’ regulatory environment, economic stability, and access to deep international capital pools were the main draws for Dubai to serve as the realtor’s regional base.

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