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SeaBubbles, Al Masaood Power to manufacture flying boats in UAE

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It may look like a futuristic prop from a sci-fi movie, but visitors to Dubai International Boat Show 2022 need not adjust their sets – the UAE’s first flying boat is a reality and could soon be manufactured locally, courtesy a new memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed at the region’s largest and most-popular leisure marine event.

Inspired by the Emirates’ pearl-diving heritage, the sustainability-focused X-Pearl – a brainchild of innovative French firm SeaBubbles – is powered by a hybrid hydrogen-electric propulsion system and retractable foils, and available for purchase. While scaled models of both its flagship H2 and the X-Pearl were unveiled on Wednesday at Dubai Harbour, the company hopes to have the limited-edition UAE model zipping along Dubai Creek, Dubai Canal, or Abu Dhabi Corniche before next year’s COP28.

That vision moved one step closer at the 28th edition of the Dubai International Boat Show as SeaBubbles capitalised on the nautical showpiece to ink an MoU with local solutions provider Al Masaood Power Division. The agreement will see both parties collaborating to pilot and assess the performance of hydrogen-powered flying boats, manufacture and maintain operations in the Emirates, and retrofit existing boats with SeaBubbles’ sustainable powertrain system.

“The Dubai International Boat Show is iconic, so it felt like the perfect opportunity to reveal the X-Pearl to an international audience and showcase that we are moving towards this ecological transition together with Al Masaood,” said Virginie Seurat, Vice President of SeaBubbles. “The MoU agreement marks another step forward in terms of driving hydrogen mobility in the UAE. With COP28 coming to the Emirates next year, we are very excited to strengthen our local ties.”

SeaBubbles’ crafts can carry up to 12 passengers and a pilot, making them ideal for a range of water mobility solutions: electric passenger vessel, zero-emission water taxi, VIP shuttle, or even for inter-city transfers. By producing minimal wake and water disturbance, it also provides a solution for eco-tourism sightseeing tours in protected areas such as the Eastern Mangroves wetland reserves.

“This is the return of the Dubai International Boat Show after two years, so while the show starts a new cycle, we also start something new and exciting with this partnership with SeaBubbles,” said Rasso Bartenschlager, General Manager of Al Masaood Power Division. “The X-Pearl, by emitting only water, demonstrates our commitment to sustainable solutions and we are honoured to sign this ground-breaking partnership that will help drive green mobility for future generations.”

SeaBubbles’ innovative tech promises a more ecological future courtesy of its hydrogen fuel cells, which generate the electricity supply for the internal systems and propulsion pods, while a battery pack supports it during flight. This hybrid concept ensures 100 per cent reliance on renewable energy sources, while its foils reduce wetted surface area and thus power usage, leading to a craft 35 per cent more power-efficient than a regular boat. Both the H2 and the X-Pearl can reach speeds of up to 50kph.

Dubai International Boat Show 2022 runs until March 13 at Dubai Harbour, the event’s Venue Host and VIP Registration Partner.

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UAE reassures residents: Food stocks strong, no need for panic buying

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Residents across the UAE have been reassured that food and essential goods remain widely available, with authorities confirming that strategic reserves are strong and supply chains are operating normally.

The Ministry of Economy said staple food items and non-food essentials are stocked in ample quantities across supermarkets and retail outlets nationwide. An advanced electronic monitoring system is in place to track inventory levels and prevent shortages before they occur.

Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, urged residents not to engage in panic buying or unnecessary stockpiling.

“We urge the public to remain reassured and not to be driven by unfounded concerns,” he said, stressing that safeguarding food security is a top national priority.

Officials confirmed there have been no unusual disruptions to imports, procurement, warehousing or distribution. Retailers across the country have also reported stable supply operations.

Authorities added that strict measures remain in place to prevent unjustified price increases and ensure continued market stability.

Shelves are stocked, systems are working, and there is no need for residents to buy more than usual.

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Loud booms heard across Dubai: Authorities reassure residents over successful air defence interception

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Residents across Dubai who heard loud sounds in various parts of the emirate have been reassured that the noises were the result of successful air defence interception operations.

In a statement carried by the Government of Dubai Media Office, authorities confirmed that defence systems had operated effectively and that relevant teams continue to monitor developments closely.

For many residents, the brief moment of uncertainty quickly gave way to reassurance as official clarification was issued.

Swift response, clear communication

Officials confirmed that specialised teams remain on alert and are taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of the community.

The rapid communication and coordinated response reflect the emirate’s emphasis on preparedness and calm crisis management, a hallmark residents have come to rely on.

Across neighbourhoods, life continued as normal, with many businesses and public services operating without disruption.

Community confidence and vigilance

Authorities urged the public to rely exclusively on official sources for accurate information and to avoid spreading unverified reports.

Residents also played their part by sharing verified updates, checking on neighbours and maintaining composure.

This serves as a reminder of Dubai’s robust safety framework and the collective awareness of its diverse community.

Safety is the highest priority

Officials reiterated that safeguarding residents and visitors remains the highest priority. Monitoring efforts continue, and authorities remain prepared to act swiftly should circumstances require.

For Dubai’s residents, the message was clear: systems are in place, teams are prepared, and safety comes first.

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UAE to cover accommodation costs for stranded travellers

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The UAE has announced that it will cover accommodation and hosting costs for travellers stranded in the country following the temporary closure of its airspace.

With flights suspended, many visitors are facing longer-than-expected stays. Authorities have confirmed that affected passengers will receive full support during the ongoing situation.

Support for affected passengers

In a statement, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) said the UAE will bear all accommodation and hosting expenses for stranded and transit passengers.

Temporary accommodation has been arranged for transit travellers, alongside meals and refreshments. Airlines are facilitating rebooking procedures in line with approved operational frameworks.

More than 20,000 passengers assisted

UAE-based airlines Emirates and Etihad Airways, in coordination with Dubai International Airport (DXB), have handled more than 20,000 passengers affected by flight rescheduling in recent days.

Authorities confirmed that:

  • Passengers were transported to destinations within the country where necessary
  • Transit travellers were provided with temporary accommodation
  • Regulatory procedures were completed under approved national frameworks

Airlines and airports also managed several arriving and departing flights impacted by operational circumstances.

Coordination continues for travel resumption

The GCAA said coordination between airports and airlines remains ongoing to monitor flight statuses and reschedule services.

Officials stressed that preparations are underway to ensure a safe and orderly resumption of flight operations as soon as conditions allow.

Passengers are urged to rely on official channels for updates and to contact their respective airlines directly for the latest information regarding bookings and schedules.

Authorities reiterated that passenger safety and welfare remain the highest priority.









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