Abu Dhabi's IHC Sets Ambitious Trajectory with Archer Stake in Flying Taxi Venture
Investment positions UAE at the forefront of advanced urban mobility solutions.
Abu Dhabi-based International Holding Company (IHC) has strategically acquired a stake in the U.S. flying car manufacturer Archer, signaling an imminent launch of flying taxi operations in the UAE.
This development underscores the emirate's commitment to pioneering advancements in urban air mobility, with operations scheduled to commence early next year.
Archer recently announced a significant $430 million raise, which included contributions from key investors such as 2PointZero—a subsidiary of IHC—Stellantis, United Airlines, and Wellington Management.
Nikhil Goel, Archer's Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized the importance of this strategic partnership: 'We are thrilled to welcome back our long-time supporters and to introduce new partners like Abu Dhabi’s 2PointZero,' he stated.
The IHC, listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and owned by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, reflects its diversified investment approach with this latest stake.
The conglomerate reported an impressive net profit of Dh12.3 billion for the first half of 2024, marking an 18% increase from the previous year, and a revenue surge of 46% to Dh41.7 billion.
Archer’s vision to establish a flying car manufacturing base in Abu Dhabi aligns with broader UAE initiatives to innovate in smart transportation.
The signing of a multi-party collaboration agreement under the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC), attended by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, further cements this commitment.
With Archer positioned as a leader in eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) technology, the UAE is set to host the Middle East’s first commercial flying taxi operations.
Archer CEO Adam Goldstein remarked that the recent capital injection empowers the company to expedite the development of their cutting-edge aerospace technologies.
Looking forward, the UAE’s proactive stance in embracing next-generation transportation not only highlights its innovative spirit but also its dedication to ensuring sustainable urban mobility solutions for the future.
As flying taxi trials commence and manufacturing hubs take shape, the UAE stands at the threshold of a new era in aviation.