Gecko Robotics is set to double its workforce and robot deployment in the UAE, aiming for a total of 40 to 50 employees and robots, according to CEO Jake Loosararian in an interview with Semafor. The Pittsburgh-based company, which specializes in developing devices and software for inspecting and maintaining critical infrastructure, has recently been valued at over $600 million. As part of its growth strategy, Gecko is preparing for a significant funding round this year and is exploring potential acquisitions amid sector consolidation.

In April, Gecko Robotics entered a partnership with UAE oil and gas contractor Al Masaood Energy, securing a $30 million multiyear contract to inspect and map ADNOC Gas facilities. The company’s wall-climbing robots are currently engaged in inspecting tanks and other assets, proving to be more efficient and safer than traditional manual methods that require extensive downtime and scaffolding. Loosararian emphasized that their technology aims to enhance infrastructure operations by predicting maintenance needs and preventing failures through data collection using robots and sensors, which is then analyzed via the company’s software platform.

Gecko Robotics’ expansion into the UAE follows initial discussions with ADNOC officials at Davos and an exploratory visit with Founders Fund, a venture firm associated with Peter Thiel. To date, the company has raised over $220 million, with notable investors including Mark Cuban, Y Combinator, the US Innovative Technology Fund, and Founders Fund. Their current project at ADNOC Gas is focused on modernizing asset maintenance, which is crucial for reducing costly shutdowns and improving operational efficiency.

Loosararian pointed out that minimizing downtime is vital for energy companies, as losing a month of production can result in costs of “$30 to $40 million per day.” He noted that developing robots and software is a capital-intensive process, which is contributing to consolidation within the industry. To address this, Gecko plans to raise additional funding and look for acquisition opportunities to broaden its service offerings.

The company is confident that the integration of robotics with proprietary data-gathering sensors and AI-driven analytics will provide a competitive advantage. Loosararian remarked that “most of our IP is in gathering the data” and predicted that standalone software companies would struggle to survive. He believes that technology firms must integrate robotics, software, and analytics to remain viable in the evolving market.