Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Aerospace
  • /
  • Skyports enters Saudi Arabia with proof-of-concept for giga-projects

Aerospace

Skyports enters Saudi Arabia with proof-of-concept for giga-projects

Skyports Drone Services (Skyports) is making its first entry into the Saudi Arabian market through a strategic collaboration with iot squared, a joint venture between Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and national telecom company stc group.

Image courtesy Skyports

The partnership will leverage Skyports’ expertise in beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations for a proof-of-concept exploring the integration of drone technology into Saudi Arabia’s large-scale infrastructure and real estate developments, known as giga-projects. In addition, Skyports will help establish a BVLOS-friendly ecosystem to accelerate the expansion of drone operations across the country. This includes developing iot squared’s remote command and control centre.

Advertisement
ODU RT

The proof-of-concept will demonstrate how drone services can contribute to more sustainable transport solutions while enabling faster, more efficient operations. By showcasing real-world applications, the initiative aims to set the foundation for widespread adoption of drone technology across Saudi Arabia’s giga-projects.

Skyports has a strong track record of successful drone service implementations across multiple industries, including medical, maritime, energy and infrastructure. The company has previously partnered with major organisations such as Royal Mail, Equinor and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore. This experience positions Skyports as a key enabler in advancing Saudi Arabia’s smart infrastructure and mobility solutions through the implementation of on demand, highly automated cargo deliveries.

As the project progresses, Skyports and iot squared will explore further opportunities to scale drone operations across Saudi Arabia’s ongoing and upcoming giga-projects.

Advertisement
ODU RT

Daniel O’Neill, General Manager, Middle East, at Skyports said, “With its strong focus on innovative infrastructure and mobility, Saudi Arabia has long been a key target market for us. The efforts of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) and the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services, have fostered a progressive regulatory environment that has been instrumental in unlocking the drone operations for the country. We’re excited to work alongside iot squared and bring our expertise in inter-island drone delivery to Saudi Arabia, demonstrating how drone technology can enhance efficiency and connectivity for world-renowned giga-projects.”

Othman Aldahash, iot squared CEO, said: Our partnership with Skyports reinforces iot squared’s position as a key player in IoT and drone-enabled solutions. By focusing on complex operations in remote and offshore locations, we’re addressing critical missions that demand high precision and where traditional methods are often expensive or inefficient. Together, we aim to deliver impactful, cost-effective alternatives that redefine operational excellence in key sectors."

Advertisement
Gulfstream banner
Airbus delivers first A321XLR for Air Canada

Aerospace

Airbus delivers first A321XLR for Air Canada

24 April 2026

The first of 30 Airbus A321XLRs for Canada’s flag carrier Air Canada, has been delivered.

UKEF partners with Finance for Forces to support veteran-led exporters

Aerospace Defence Security Space

UKEF partners with Finance for Forces to support veteran-led exporters

24 April 2026

UK Export Finance (UKEF) – the government’s export credit agency – has announced a new partnership with Finance for Forces to help more veteran-led businesses access the finance they need to grow internationally.

Boeing and Ontic expand partnership

Aerospace Events

Boeing and Ontic expand partnership

24 April 2026

Boeing and Ontic have announced a new distribution agreement at MRO Americas to supply Grimes engine valves to commercial airlines worldwide, pairing Boeing Distribution’s global reach with Ontic’s manufacturing to shorten lead times and improve aircraft readiness.

Air ambulance pilots and CAA issue warning to drone flyers on World Pilot Day

Aerospace Security

Air ambulance pilots and CAA issue warning to drone flyers on World Pilot Day

24 April 2026

On World Pilot Day (Sunday 26th April) air ambulance pilots are teaming up with the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to urge drone users to fly responsibly after emergency helicopter flights were disrupted by drones during lifesaving missions in 2025.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Cranfield leads UK research into aviation’s non-CO₂ climate impacts

Aerospace

Cranfield leads UK research into aviation’s non-CO₂ climate impacts

23 April 2026

Cranfield University has been selected to play a key role in a major UK research initiative aimed at improving the understanding of aviation’s non CO₂ climate impacts.

Ontic introduces strategic teardown procurement initiative

Aerospace

Ontic introduces strategic teardown procurement initiative

23 April 2026

Ontic has introduced a new teardown procurement initiative to address one of the industry's most persistent challenges, namely the availability of hard-to-source components for established platforms.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner