King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) has entered a major strategic partnership with SkyGrid, a leading company in autonomous aerial systems and AI-driven aviation technologies, to accelerate the development of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions in Saudi Arabia.
The collaboration supports the Kingdom’s broader vision to integrate next-generation aviation technologies, including autonomous electric aircraft capable of transporting passengers and cargo, streamlining logistics, and enabling entirely new aerial services. AAM is regarded as one of the most transformative global innovations set to redefine air transportation and operational efficiency.
Through this partnership, KAUST and SkyGrid will work on developing advanced ecosystems for unmanned aircraft operations — including AI-powered traffic management, autonomous flight control, secure communication systems, and digital platforms designed to ensure safe, scalable air mobility within complex environments.
The initiative will also strengthen scientific research, support testbeds and pilot projects, and create an enabling environment for innovation within Saudi Arabia’s emerging aviation and smart city sectors. With its rapid technological growth, the Kingdom is positioned to become a global hub for next-generation air mobility infrastructure.
KAUST and SkyGrid emphasized that this collaboration aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s commitment to advanced technologies, innovation-driven industries, and the future economy. The project aims to unlock new aerial networks for urban mobility, emergency response, industrial operations, and next-generation logistics.
With these efforts, Saudi Arabia continues to establish itself as a leader in the global shift toward intelligent, autonomous aviation systems.
