THE JET, the world’s first hydrogen-powered flying boat, is to be manufactured and globally debuted from Dubai, as the emirate continues to attract innovators and companies from across the globe.
The Switzerland-based startup, THE JET ZeroEmission has signed an agreement with UAE-based company, Zenith Marine Services and US-based DWYN to manufacture and operate ‘THE JET’. The international debut of the boat, which has a distinctive design, will also take place in Dubai.
This agreement echoes Dubai’s leadership position as a global center for future industries. The Emirate’s strong infrastructure and supportive investment environment have made it an ideal launchpad for innovative companies to reach their global ambitions.
The boat is equipped with clean-tech, environmentally friendly technologies.
THE JET features cutting-edge characteristics and technologies, making it capable of flying in silence over the waters at a cruising speed of 40 knots. The boat is fitted with vanes, or foils, that lift the hull clear of the water, creating a smooth, quiet, low-resistance and fuel-efficient ride.
The luxurious boat has a capacity of 8 to 12 passengers and is equipped with two fuel cells and an air conditioner as well as other clean-tech, environmentally friendly technologies that help reduce carbon emissions.
The partnership agreement between THE JET ZeroEmission and UAE business partners is good news for the environment and the future of clean-energy maritime transport. ‘THE JET’s’ cutting-edge fuel cell technology will be delivered in Dubai for a historic inaugural flight, during the next COP28 UAE preparatory meetings, which will be held in November 2023.
Alain Thébault Founder THE JET ZeroEmission
“We are pleased to make this announcement from Dubai, and be able to manufacture and launch ‘THE JET’, which is going to be the world’s first boat to sail without noise, waves, or emissions and have the capability of flying 80cm above the waters. Dubai is an ideal destination for innovators and companies from around the world to develop their innovative projects and reach their desired success, which is why we have announced ‘THE JET’, a project that I had the privilege of conceiving with the team.”
Clean and renewable energy is a key requirement to sustainability and stands at the forefront of Dubai and the UAE’s strategic priorities. The Emirate has also launched the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to produce 75 percent of its energy requirements from clean sources by 2050.
The Strategy also aims to make Dubai a global center of clean energy and a green economy. It consists of five main pillars including, infrastructure, legislation, funding, building capacities and skills, and environment-friendly energy mix.
