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SeaBubbles, Al Masaood Power to manufacture flying boats in UAE
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.
Authorities across the UAE have stepped up safety measures as unstable weather continues to impact multiple regions, bringing rainfall, strong winds, and reduced visibility.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued yellow and orange alerts across most parts of the country, warning of varying rainfall intensity and winds reaching up to 50 km/h. While sea conditions remain light to moderate in the Arabian Gulf and Sea of Oman, residents have been strongly advised to avoid valleys, flood-prone areas, mountainous regions, and the sea.
Drive safely
Authorities are urging motorists to drive cautiously, reduce speed, and maintain safe distances due to slippery roads and poor visibility. Dubai Police confirmed full readiness to respond to emergencies and stressed the importance of following traffic laws and avoiding risky areas such as watercourses and valleys.
Emergency contact numbers have been shared by officials in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, ensuring residents can quickly seek assistance when needed. For emergencies, the public can contact 999, while non-emergency cases can be reported via 901.
Flight disruptions
Meanwhile, major airlines including Emirates, flidubai and Air Arabia have issued travel advisories. Passengers are urged to allow extra travel time to airports, check flight status regularly, and stay updated on potential delays or schedule changes. Air Arabia noted that operations in Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah may be affected. Passengers have been urged to check their flight status ahead of departing for the airport.
Residents urged to remain indoors
The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority also reassured the public that emergency alert systems remain active, clarifying that warning sounds should not be confused with weather-related disturbances.
Residents have been urged to remain indoors during severe weather and avoid going out unless absolutely necessary, stressing that precautionary behaviour is essential to prevent injuries and accidents during sudden weather changes.
The ministry also advised residents to protect vehicles and outdoor property by covering them where possible.
Weather conditions are expected to persist through the week, with authorities emphasising the importance of staying informed through official channels and avoiding unnecessary travel.
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