The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is taking significant steps to transform its urban infrastructure into smart cities by integrating advanced robotics and drone technology. This initiative includes the gradual deployment of these technologies across government departments and public facilities, as well as the introduction of driverless vehicles and flying taxis.

According to Statista, the global drone market is projected to grow significantly, with 8.2 million active drones in 2024 expected to rise to 9.5 million by 2029. Revenue from the drone market is anticipated to reach US$4.4 billion by 2025. Additionally, the connected commercial drone market is forecasted to expand from US$18.6 billion in 2024, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15 percent, reaching US$21.4 billion (Dh78 billion) in 2025 and US$37.3 billion by 2029.

In 2023, the Dubai Government set an ambitious goal to increase the robotics sector’s contribution to Dubai’s GDP to 9 percent by 2032, aiming to establish a Dh35 billion (US$9.5 billion) industry. As part of the Dubai Robotics and Automation Program, the city plans to deploy 200 000 robots over the next decade to enhance efficiency in various sectors, including services and logistics.

UAE Minister of Cabinet Affairs, Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, highlighted the transformative impact of robotics and AI, projecting that by 2050, there will be over 20 billion robots assisting 10 billion people. He noted that the world’s population has grown to 8.2 billion, with the global economy expanding from $34 trillion to $115 trillion by 2024, while international trade surged from $7 trillion to $33 trillion.

Private sector companies are now introducing cutting-edge technologies involving drones, robotics, and AI, which will support the UAE’s Fourth Industrial Revolution Strategy. This strategy aims to position the UAE as a global hub for innovation and technology, ultimately benefiting society and enhancing sustainability.

Sigma Enterprises is leading the introduction of Swiss robotics and drone technology in the GCC, aiming to protect critical infrastructure and improve operational efficiency. At the First Swiss Future Tech event in Abu Dhabi, Sigma showcased solutions from Swiss companies Anybotics, Flyability, and Wingtra, and has secured exclusive distribution rights for these technologies in the UAE.

The integration of Anybotics’ robotics solutions is projected to boost the UAE’s robotics market revenue to US$241.95 million this year, with service robotics expected to dominate. The market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 10.45 percent, reaching US$360.12 million by 2029.

Dr. Arthur Mattli, the Swiss Ambassador to the UAE, emphasized the importance of the collaboration in technology and innovation between the two nations. He noted that the partnership represents a significant step forward in Emirati-Swiss relations, with a shared commitment to precision and innovation.

Sigma Enterprises’ collaboration with Anybotics, Flyability, and Wingtra aims to enhance safety and efficiency in various industries, including oil and gas and construction. Charbel Khoury, Group CEO of Mazrui International, expressed his enthusiasm for bringing advanced technologies to the region, which will improve maintenance practices and extend the lifecycle of critical infrastructure.

Flyability specializes in indoor drones for inspecting hazardous environments, while Wingtra is known for its vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drones used in professional surveying. Their technologies are set to transform traditional inspection methods, ensuring safety and cost-effectiveness across various sectors.