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Arabian Post
21-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
UAE gets Swiss robots and drones
Drone and robotics are evolving industry worldwide as well as in the Middle East where the UAE has taken a leadership role in gradually deploying them in government departments and public facilities – in addition to bringing in driver less vehicles and flying taxis – to transform its urban infrastructure into smart cities where drones, machines, robotics and AI will play a crucial role. The UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), that regulates the drone industry, has registered nearly 24,000 industrial- and commercial-grade drones as well as more than 100 business licenses dealing with the use of drones including renting and offering drone display services. Globally, 8.2 million drones were active in 2024, which is expected to grow to 9.5 million by 2029. In 2025, the global revenue in the drones market worldwide will reach US$4.4 billion, according to Statista, a global market intelligence provider. The global market for connected commercial drones is forecast to grow from US$18.6 billion in 2024 at a CAGR of 15 percent to reach US$21.4 billion (Dh78 billion) in 2025 and US$37.3 billion in 2029, according to a research report. ADVERTISEMENT In 2023, the Dubai Government announced that it aims to increase the robotics sector's contribution to Dubai's GDP to 9 percent by 2032. The emirate wants to turn robotics into a Dh35 billion (US$9.5 billion) industry. As part of the Dubai Robotics and Automation (R&A) Program, 200,000 robots will be provided over the next 10 years until 2032, to increase efficiency and productivity in various sectors including services, logistics, and the industrial sector, and enhance the competitiveness of Dubai's economy. More than 20 billion robots will be serving 10 billion human beings by 2050, reshaping lifestyles, labour markets and societies, Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, UAE Minister of Cabinet Affairs told delegates at the World Government Summit in February this year. Reflecting on the drastic changes in the last 25 years since the year 2000, Al Gergawi said, 'The world's population has grown to 8.2 billion today, and the global economy has expanded from $34 trillion to $115 trillion by 2024. International trade surged from $7 trillion to $33 trillion over the same period.' He highlighted the rapid growth of digital connectivity, with internet usage soaring from less than 7 percent of the global population in 2000 to over 60 percent today. 'In 2050, over 20 billion robots will assist humans, and the space economy is expected to reach US$4 trillion,' he said. Private sector businesses have started to bring in some of the best technologies in drones, robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, etc, that will help the UAE to realise its Fourth Industrial Revolution Strategy that aims to strengthen the UAE's position as a global hub for the Fourth Industrial Revolution and to increase its contribution to the national economy by advancing innovation and future technologies. It also aims to position the UAE as a global model in adopting leading-edge technologies to serve society and achieve happiness and sustainability. While a number of global conglomerates are also entering and setting up their branches to introduce driverless cars, flying taxis and drone-led home delivery eco-system, others are appointing local companies as their sales and servicing agents who will deploy these technologies in the UAE and the region. ADVERTISEMENT With rapid transformation driven by the government's futuristic vision, the UAE will soon see large-scale deployment of robots across all public services ranging from courier to food delivery – that will push up the demand for robots and drones. Sigma Enterprises is bringing Swiss robots and drones for the GCC countries to protect critical infrastructure, assets and increase the flow of data for increased efficiency and cost reduction. Sigma Enterprises, a member of the Mazrui International, has taken a leadership role in bringing the latest Swiss robotics and drone technology to the GCC countries that are famous for precision data, surveillance supported by Artificial Intelligence that will play a crucial role in protecting critical infrastructure including oil and gas, utility, nuclear power plant, manufacturing industries, airport and aviation assets, among others. Sigma Enterprises showcased the Swiss precision robotics and drones solutions from Anybotics, Flyability and Wingtra at the First Swiss Future Tech event held in Abu Dhabi recently. Sigma, which represents a number of global technology and engineering products in the Gulf, has acquired exclusive distribution rights for Swiss based Anybotics, Flyability and Wingtra in the UAE. It is currently deploying them with its customers offering end-to-end solutions, training and after-sales service. The introduction of world's best robotic technology from ANYbotics with Swiss precision by Sigma Enterprises in the region will boost the revenue in the robotics market to US$241.95 million in the UAE this year with service robotic dominating the market with projected market value of US$223.75 million. This is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.45 per cent to US$360.12 million by 2029. Bilateral trade between the UAE and Switzerland has exceeded US$2.5 billion, according to Dr. Arthur Mattli, Swiss Ambassador to the UAE. 'In an ever-evolving world, we are witnessing a quiet revolution through the evolution of Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, robotics, data science, precision technology, innovation as well as he development of the drone technology,' Dr. Arthur Mattli said. 'With our shared ethics of precision and innovation, we can assure you that machines will not replace us but protect us. The accuracy of their data will determine the effectiveness of the new smart cities that are being built across the world. 'Sigma Enterprises' partnership with leading Swiss tech firms represents a significant collaboration between the two nations who share similar ideologies in innovation and technology. This partnership is a historic milestone in our relationship and marks the beginning of Emirati-Swiss collaboration that will strengthen the ties between the UAE and Switzerland. 'Today, we celebrate not just technology but also mission, collaboration, and the pioneering spirit that drives innovation forward. ANYbotics, Flyability, and Wingtra do not just build machines; rather, they are pioneers of the future. They combine innovation, artificial intelligence, and Swiss precision to develop smarter tools benefitting various industries,' Dr. Arthur Mattli concluded. ANYbotics is a fast-growing company with over 100 employees focused on supporting the inspection needs of workers in oil & gas, power, energy, mining, processing, chemicals, transportation, and construction. In 2023, SIGMA Enterprises signed an agreement to bring the latest robotics solutions from ANYbotics – one of the world's most renowned producers of industrial and commercial robots that play crucial role in protecting critical infrastructure. Since 2016, Swiss robotics company ANYbotics developed innovative, intelligent, and integrated robotic solutions that improve workers' lives, increase productivity, and support more sustainable industrial facilities. Partnering with global technology leaders, ANYbotics provides large asset operators with autonomous, automated, end-to-end robotic inspection solutions for complex, hazardous, and explosive industrial environments. Sigma Enterprises also has signed up with Flyability and Wingtra to deploy their latest drone technology that will play a great role in monitoring, surveillance, data analytics, preventive maintenance and help sustain the life-cycle of critical infrastructure and physical assets. Mr. Charbel Khoury, Group CEO of Mazrui International, said, 'Mazrui Group is a diversified business conglomerate with interests in trading, construction, services, real estate and oil and gas sector, with a legacy of more than five decades. We have been bringing the latest industrial solutions to help our economy with the best services and solutions. 'We are delighted to collaborate with ANYbotics, Flyability, and Wingtra to bring the latest improved technologies in challenging landscapes of industries like oil and gas, construction, chemicals, power and utilities, and metals in the UAE and broader GCC. Our partnership with these Swiss robotics and drone technology solutions providers will help us to strengthen the life-cycle of the region's critical infrastructure, reduce maintenance cost, and extend the life-cycle of assets and maximising profitability of businesses.' Flyability is a pioneer in the development of indoor drones designed to access and inspect hard-to-reach, hazardous environments — eliminating the need to send humans into dangerous spaces. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Switzerland, the company leads the market in commercial indoor drone technology, driven by continuous innovation and a strong focus on research and development. Flyability is transforming traditional inspection methods by enabling safe, efficient, and cost-effective visual data collection across industries. On the other hand Wingtra, based in Zurich, Switzerland, is the global leader in vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drones for professional surveying. Since launching in 2017, Wingtra has built a strong global presence, partnering with over 80 major surveying equipment dealers across 50+ countries. With a team of 100+ employees — over 40 dedicated to research and development, and many alumni of ETH Zurich — Wingtra designs, manufactures, and supports its products in-house. The WingtraOne drone, equipped with best-in-class sensors and PPK technology, delivers survey-grade aerial data with exceptional accuracy and efficiency, serving industries from construction and mining to environmental monitoring. Also published on Medium. Notice an issue? Arabian Post strives to deliver the most accurate and reliable information to its readers. If you believe you have identified an error or inconsistency in this article, please don't hesitate to contact our editorial team at editor[at]thearabianpost[dot]com. We are committed to promptly addressing any concerns and ensuring the highest level of journalistic integrity.
Khaleej Times
31-03-2025
- Automotive
- Khaleej Times
2025 Dongfeng AX7 auto review: The car in the Common Man's corner
The top variants of once-affordable crossovers from established automakers are now priced upward of Dh150,000, leaving the middle class foraging for affordable private mobility. However, there is hope. It partly lies in the growing presence of Chinese brands in the Middle East, which offer a range of affordable sedans and crossovers. We take a look at the China-made 2025 Dongfeng AX7, which starts at just Dh78,900. But is the attractive price tag just clickbait for Instagram scrollers? Or is it another example of a Chinese brand challenging the stigma of poor quality with a well-rounded product? Here's your answer: Design and aesthetics Yes, the AX7 is another Chinese compact crossover, but a few distinctions keep things interesting. Between those simplistic, albeit Audi-esque, lamps is a large grille with beautiful, repeated 'twisted metal' detailing, as I call it, which gives it a face that stands out. The rising beltline, sloped rear roofline, and turbine-style large two-tone 19-inch wheels create a sporty profile, while at the rear are neat LED tail lamps stretched across the width, with faux exhaust tips below – stereotypical Chinese car details. Now add some unique contrasting red, detailing on the front lower valance and door bottoms, and you have a sporty crossover with an almost youthful appearance that many may be drawn to. Far from the fuddy-duddy designs of some German, Japanese, and American rivals, the interior is reasonably busy but chic, featuring a swoopy dashboard design with satin-finish trims and contrasting red detailing that continues into the cabin. The main focus lies in two parts. One is the flat-bottom three-spoke steering wheel with suitably sized buttons and controls, sitting in front of a seven-inch digital cluster disguised to look larger than it is. The second is the centre console with a colourful 12.3-inch screen, along with ergonomic A/C buttons below it. The BMW-style transmission lever is easy to operate, though it is squeaky, and the plastic speaker covers look cheap. However, the plastics pass the 'QC' test overall. The faux leather seats are sculpted, with perforated and paneled faux leather. The six-way power adjustability and padded door handles add to the comfort. While the rear cabin is spacious, shoulder room can be tight with three large adults. Thankfully, it has a panoramic sunroof. Powertrain and performance Propelling this compact crossover forward is a turbocharged 1.5-litre 4-cylinder MACH engine, which it shares with the Shine Max we reviewed earlier. This seems to be the main configuration for Chinese vehicles, and for good reason—they never disappoint in terms of overall performance. This one makes 188 PS at 5,200 rpm and a healthy 300 Nm of torque between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm. On the straights, it doesn't quite provide neck-breaking torque, but the enthusiasm from the small-displacement motor is relentless which helps it get to 100km/h from a standstill in a brisk eight seconds. But on regular drives, the 7-speed DCT transmission was a tad temperamental—it wasn't silky smooth. The lightweight front-wheel-drive layout helped with fuel economy. I couldn't quite match the claimed 6.6 L/100 km, but managed a decent 9.9 L/100 km, which is an average that won't break the bank. The AX7's FWD layout, along with the suspension setup (MacPherson struts up front and multi-link rear), was designed for comfort, which most families will appreciate. As for road dynamics, they are predictable for all regular driving conditions, thanks to the grip of the 225mm wide tyres. But if pushed, it does understeer a little. Features and functionality The cup holders are small, but it does have a sizable glovebox and a decently sized boot. It lacks a power tailgate, but everyone knows you can shut it a lot quicker manually. Additionally, you can also increase the luggage capacity by folding the 60:40 split rear seats. The AX7 comes equipped with Bluetooth and two USB-A ports (none in the rear), so connectivity isn't a real issue. However, here's the caveat. The AX7 isn't equipped with radio or navigation. But worry not, the showroom folks have promised a solution. A dongle for FM reception will be retrofitted, and we expect both issues to be resolved with the next batch of vehicles. In terms of safety, the concerned driver doesn't have much to worry about. It comes with conveniences like cruise control, a tire pressure monitoring system, a 360-degree camera with decent resolution (a rear camera for the base model), six airbags, and ISOFIX points for fitting a child seat. The Dongfeng AX7 is a great entry into the compact crossover segment. For Dh84,900 (as tested), it's a modest ask for a well-rounded SUV that is fighting the common man's cause. And yes, being a new vehicle, reliability and residual value are up in the air, but surely a six-year/200,000 km warranty and a two-year/30,000 km service package should appease your sensible side, even if just a bit. EDITOR'S RATING: 7.0/10 stars SPECIFICATIONS Body type : 5-seater; 5-door compact crossover SUV Engine : Front-engine; turbocharged 1.5-litre 4-cylinder; front-wheel drive Transmission: 7-speed DCT (automatic manual) Peak output: 190 PS @ 5,600 rpm 300 Nm @ 2,000 – 4,000 rpm 0 to 100km/h: 8.0 seconds (estimated) Top speed: 185 km/h (drag limited; estimated) Price: Starting at Dh78,900
