Nauticus Robotics, a US-based developer of autonomous subsea robotics, has partnered with Master Investment Group, a UAE investment firm. The two companies have entered an agreement of up to AED 183,644,167 (approximately $50 million). The partnership is aimed at establishing Nauticus’ first international manufacturing and offshore robotics services hub in the United Arab Emirates.
Under the agreement, Master Investment Group will offer an initial AED 11,018,650 (approximately $3 million) investment to support the launch of Nauticus’ UAE business unit. This funding will be used for early operational needs. It includes setting up local infrastructure and beginning the groundwork for manufacturing and offshore services.
More capital is expected to be released in phases. This extra money will support facility development, workforce localisation, and the scaling up of manufacturing capabilities in the UAE.
The planned UAE hub will support the production and deployment of Nauticus’ Aquanaut autonomous subsea platform. Aquanaut is designed for offshore energy and industrial applications and is a core part of the company’s commercial strategy.
Nauticus has already started forming a local legal entity in the UAE and has shortlisted potential sites for the facility. These steps are intended to speed up the transition from planning to active operations once approvals are secured.
As part of the partnership, Master Investment Group will support Nauticus in securing an initial Aquanaut deployment contract in the region. This is expected to help Nauticus move quickly into active service delivery rather than remaining in a setup phase for long.
Once operational, the UAE facility is expected to support offshore robotic services across the Middle East and surrounding regions, along with future Nauticus software and robotics offerings.
The proposed investment and expansion are subject to third-party and government approvals. If cleared, Nauticus expects the UAE operations to reach initial operational capability in 2026.
The move is a key step in Nauticus’ global expansion plans. With it, the UAE would become the company’s base for serving the Middle East and nearby markets. It aligns with the country’s push to grow advanced industrial and robotics capabilities. For Nauticus, the deal offers capital, regional access, and a faster route to commercial deployment in international markets.
Note: The $ prices have been converted to AED using the Revolut currency converter. Prices may vary from platform to platform, so please do your own research.
Also Read: How the UAE Is Rolling Out Air Taxis and Self-Driving Cars Safely