US-based Gecko Robotics, specializing in the oil and gas and power infrastructure, will be the latest global company to set up a new international headquarters in the UAE under the country’s ambitious ‘NextGenFDI’ initiative.
As part of its investment in the country, the Pittsburgh-based company is looking to establish a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD).
The new production facility is expected to create about 300 jobs over the next few years.
Gecko’s wall-climbing robots use specially designed sensor payloads to detect otherwise invisible damage, allowing for precision repairs and predictive maintenance.
A range of companies and government agencies use Gecko’s software to extend the lifespan and efficiency of critical infrastructure including power plants, oil refineries, manufacturing facilities, and other assets.
Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi, UAE minister of state for foreign trade, who oversees the ‘NextGenFDI’ programme, said Gecko’s investment supported the UAE’s mission to develop a world class, advanced technology ecosystem.
“Once again, we are seeing world-leading technology make its home in the UAE. Our industrial sector is seeking to integrate the tools of the fourth industrial revolution to improve efficiencies and boost productivity, and Gecko Robotics will be a key partner on that journey,” the minister said.
Jake Loosararian, CEO and co-founder of Gecko Robotics, said the company was a big believer in the UAE and its transformation into a globally competitive economic and innovation hub.
“Here, we can take advantage of the UAE’s comprehensive economic partnership agreements to export to the rest of the world,” he said.
Loosararian said the company could also support energy businesses in the region to realize efficiencies that will help productivity and create the drive to realize net zero goals.
“As our business continues to expand across Europe and the Middle East, we see the UAE market as a critical hub to access both the manufacturing and engineering talent we need to continue to accelerate our growth. Our first employees are already settling in the UAE and we have ambitious plans to grow our footprint,” the Gecko chief executive said.
The NextGenFDI initiative was launched by the Ministry of Economy in July, 2022, to attract digitally enabled businesses from all over the world with a package of market entry fundamentals required to launch and scale from within the UAE.
The incentive package includes rapid and flexible incorporation processes, fast-track licensing, bulk visa issuances, banking facilitation and commercial and residential lease incentives.
The program has been devised to accelerate the UAE’s economic diversification agenda and elevate its status as a knowledge- and innovation-based economy.
Gecko Robotics is the latest to commit to the programme, joining UK tech company Gödel and food app development company Krush – with more expected in the coming weeks.
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