During the Forbes Middle East Building the Future Summit, Dr Abdulla Hamad Al Ghfeli, Acting Director-General of the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), outlined the latest developments surrounding the project and indicated that preparations are entering their final stages.

Speaking about the upcoming launch, he said, “The air taxi will soon start operating in Abu Dhabi by the end of this year or the beginning of next year.” 

Alongside the rollout of the Abu Dhabi air taxi network, ITC is also preparing to launch a mobility-as-a-service platform in the coming months. The digital solution will allow passengers to plan, reserve and pay for trips covering multiple modes of transportation through a single application.

According to Al Ghfeli, the platform has been designed in a similar manner to the UAE government’s TAMM platform and aims to deliver a seamless travel experience from beginning to end. The authority has already implemented an automated fare collection system and is continuing efforts to integrate payment systems throughout Abu Dhabi’s transport network.

Archer Aviation Partnership Drives Air Taxi Ecosystem Development

Development of the commercial Abu Dhabi air taxi ecosystem began in 2024 through a collaboration between Archer Aviation and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office. Progress continued in 2025 when Abu Dhabi Aviation became Archer’s first Launch Edition customer, creating a pathway toward commercial deployment.

A further breakthrough was achieved on July 2, 2025, when Archer Aviation conducted the first demonstration flight of its Midnight electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft at Al Bateen Executive Airport in Abu Dhabi. The all-electric aircraft is configured to carry four passengers and a pilot for short urban trips. It offers a range of up to 161 kilometres and can reach speeds of 241 km/h.

The Midnight aircraft incorporates a fixed-wing design together with 12 electric motors. Six forward tilt motors rotate during flight, enabling the transition from vertical lift to forward flight in approximately 45 seconds, while six rear motors provide additional lift during take-off and landing operations.

Archer Aviation plans to deploy an initial Midnight fleet in Abu Dhabi, supported by trained pilots, maintenance personnel, operational software and a dedicated passenger booking platform.

Infrastructure Expansion Supports Future Air Mobility

Infrastructure development is progressing in parallel with aircraft deployment plans. Authorities are transforming the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal helipad into a hybrid facility capable of serving both helicopters and eVTOL aircraft. In addition, plans call for the construction of more than 10 vertiports across the emirate. Initial locations include Zayed International Airport, Al Bateen Executive Airport, Yas Island, Saadiyat Island and Abu Dhabi Island.

Artificial Intelligence and Connectivity Shape Future Transport

Al Ghfeli explained that artificial intelligence now plays a central role in transport planning throughout Abu Dhabi. Authorities are leveraging information from population growth trends, housing projects, public transport networks, taxi services and road sensors to predict demand, enhance traffic management and guide infrastructure investment.

The integrated command platform is designed to help authorities anticipate congestion, improve incident response times and optimise the movement of people throughout the transport system.

Abu Dhabi Mobility, formerly known as the Integrated Transport Centre, continues to oversee the emirate’s transition toward an integrated transport system that incorporates future-focused technologies, including commercial Abu Dhabi air taxi services.

Strategic Agreements at Transport Logistic China 2026

On the opening day of the event, Saudi and Chinese organizations finalized seven memoranda of understanding and formal agreements. These documents cover a wide range of sectors, including industrial development, mobility, and logistics. These latest developments are part of a continuous effort to enhance transport cooperation between the two nations, following the 2022 Saudi-Chinese Summit in Riyadh. That summit established a framework to align Saudi Vision 2030 with China’s Belt and Road Initiative, specifically focusing on supply chains and integrated logistics.

Omaimah Bamasag, the Deputy Governor for Transport Enablement at the Transport General Authority, stated that the Kingdom is actively pursuing modern and sustainable mobility. She noted that this is being achieved through a flexible regulatory framework designed to foster innovation and accelerate the localization of advanced technologies.

Advancing Smart Mobility and Autonomous Solutions

A significant highlight of the exhibition was the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Saudi digital solutions provider Elm and Shenzhen Smart City. This agreement focuses on exploring collaborative efforts in smart mobility and autonomous vehicle technologies. The partnership is intended to facilitate digital transformation and enhance the overall efficiency of services within the broader transport sector. By integrating smart mobility into the existing framework, both entities aim to modernize urban transit and logistics operations.

In addition to the formal signings, Bamasag conducted a specialized workshop detailing the national logistics strategy. This session provided international companies with a comprehensive overview of investment regulations and the various investment opportunities currently available within the Kingdom. The authority also engaged in high-level meetings with the Transport Bureau of the Shenzhen Municipal Government and visited Huawei to review the latest applications of artificial intelligence in transport.

The Saudi pavilion further emphasized the regulatory reforms and digital transformation initiatives currently underway. These efforts are aimed at increasing private-sector participation and improving operational efficiency under the National Transport and Logistics Strategy.

The event brought together transport specialists from member states of the union and the Arab League. Qatamin emphasized that the transport and logistics sector remains one of the key pillars of Jordan’s national economy and plays a critical role in supporting trade, attracting investment and maintaining supply chain sustainability among Arab countries.

The minister also stressed that continued investment in transport infrastructure and services is necessary to keep pace with regional and global developments while increasing the sector’s contribution to economic growth. He described the Arab Union for Land Transport as an important platform for institutional cooperation, underscoring the value of stronger coordination among member states to support Arab economic integration and align transport-related policies.

Focus on Logistics Corridors and Border Modernization

Besides the development of Jordan as a regional transport hub, Qatamin called for further development of logistics corridors across the Arab region. He also emphasized the need for harmonized transport procedures and modernization of border and customs systems to facilitate cargo movement, lower operational costs and reduce transit times.

The assembly included an official opening session followed by specialized discussions and coincided with the 50th anniversary of the Arab Union for Land Transport. Representatives from transport ministries, federations and land transport companies from several Arab countries attended the event.

Minister Plenipotentiary and Chairperson of the Transport and Tourism Committee at the Arab League Bahgat Abu El-Nasr noted that the Arab Union for Land Transport has evolved into a leading reference point for research and studies related to the transport sector across the Arab world. He highlighted the union’s increasing contribution to policymaking and logistics development initiatives.

Arab Transport Cooperation and Digital Transformation in Focus

Secretary-General of the Arab Union for Land Transport Malek Haddad said the organization has reached an advanced stage of institutional development after five decades of activity, strengthening its capabilities and expanding its influence within the Arab transport sector. He stated that the launch of the Arab Transport Experts Unit represents a major milestone by creating a platform that consolidates Arab expertise and provides technical support for policymakers, helping improve transport policies and overall sector performance.

Haddad added that the union’s next phase will concentrate on expanding Arab cooperation in transport and logistics, accelerating digital transformation and advancing sustainability initiatives to improve regional and international competitiveness.

President of the International Association of Land Transport (UIT) and Chairperson of the Arab Union for Land Transport Khaled Haqil described the union’s 50th anniversary as a significant achievement reflecting progress in joint Arab institutional work and the creation of a more comprehensive regulatory framework for land transport.

Haqil said the organization is entering a new stage focused on strengthening institutional tools and reinforcing its position as the umbrella organization for Arab land transport. He noted that the sector has developed into an integrated economic system closely linked to trade, supply chains and development. He also emphasized the importance of expanding public-private partnerships to improve logistics efficiency and adaptability to global developments, while describing the Arab Transport Experts Unit as a strategic initiative supporting transport decision-making through specialized expertise and technical studies.

Participants further examined issues including the development of the Arab land transport system, facilitation of transit and cross-border transport, modernization of transport legislation and regulatory frameworks, digital transformation of logistics services, enhancement of training and road safety programs, and broader public-private partnerships. These discussions reflected a shared commitment to building a more integrated, efficient and sustainable Arab transport network.

Announced through a joint statement the agreement is part of the wider Abidjan-Lagos Corridor programme, which receives support from the European Union through its Global Gateway Initiative. The signing ceremony was held at the headquarters of the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), where officials later conducted a site inspection. Those attending the event included EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle, European Union Ambassador to Nigeria Gautier Mignot, and the Consul General of France in Lagos, Laurent Favier.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, described the backing for the Omi Eko Project as an important achievement and reiterated the state government’s determination to ensure the initiative succeeds. He stated that the administration would continue to provide the required enabling environment through political commitment, policy consistency, transparency, accountability and effective collaboration.

Fayolle said the European Investment Bank was proud to support what he described as a flagship green project that would provide safer, more efficient and affordable public transport for millions of Lagos residents.

He added that the initiative would enhance daily living conditions, encourage sustainable economic growth and generate employment opportunities.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Blue Economy, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, described the agreement as a significant milestone in Lagos State’s quest to unlock the vast potential of its blue economy, particularly through the Omi Eko Project.

European Partners Commit €410 Million to Modern Transport Network

According to Gautier Mignot, the project demonstrates the commitment of the European Union, the EIB and the French Development Agency (AFD) to supporting Lagos State and Nigeria. The collaboration is the first between LASWA and the European Investment Bank, which has become the largest financier of the Omi Eko Project. The long-term EIB loan is supported by an EU guarantee provided under the Global Gateway Initiative.

The project is also being co-financed by AFD and the European Commission. AFD is providing €130 million through a sovereign loan, while the European Commission is contributing a €60 million investment grant. Combined with the EIB financing, total support from European partners amounts to €410 million.

Under the programme, the EU Bank will finance the expansion of an urban waterways transport system throughout Lagos. Planned developments include new ferry piers, passenger stations and jetties, maintenance facilities and the introduction of fully electric vessels. A fleet of 75 state-of-the-art electric ferries, each capable of carrying up to 440 passengers, will be deployed to support the waterways transport system, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit water pollution.

Infrastructure Expansion Targets Higher Water Transport Usage

The project will also create 15 structured ferry routes spanning approximately 140 kilometres while linking 25 upgraded and expanded ferry terminals across Lagos State. Once fully operational, the waterways transport system is expected to increase the share of water-based transportation in Lagos from less than one per cent currently to as much as eight per cent by 2032, aligning with the Lagos State Transport Master Plan.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu officially launched the Omi Eko Project in 2025 at the Five Cowries Terminal in Falomo, Ikoyi. With a total value of €410 million, the initiative is intended to transform mobility across the Lagos Lagoon through modern infrastructure and sustainable inland waterways operations. The project is expected to play a central role in strengthening the state’s waterways transport system while advancing broader transport and blue economy objectives.

Since beginning operations in Nigeria in 1978, the European Investment Bank has invested €2.3 billion across sectors including sustainable transport, energy, agriculture, innovation and financing for small and medium-sized enterprises.

Discussions Highlight Railway Modernization

The talks centered on the advancement of railway passenger transportation in Azerbaijan and plans to expand the country’s modern rolling stock fleet.

During the meeting, Rustamov reaffirmed ADY’s interest in strengthening cooperation with CRRC Zhuzhou, which is recognized as one of the world’s leading manufacturers of rolling stock. He emphasized that railway modernization remains a key priority for Azerbaijan as it seeks to deliver passenger services that are more comfortable, safe, reliable and sustainable.

Rustamov said, “One of ADY’s goals is to build a modern rolling stock fleet that addresses flexibly to growing passenger demand. Negotiations on the purchase of new passenger trains are of great importance in terms of improving service quality on both suburban and intercity routes.”

The parties reviewed opportunities related to the acquisition of 4 new passenger trains for intercity railway operations in Azerbaijan. They also inspected trains showcased by CRRC Zhuzhou and exchanged views on a range of issues, including technical specifications, energy efficiency, AI-powered safety systems, operational durability, spare parts supply, maintenance requirements and training opportunities.

Discussions additionally covered the purchase of 20 passenger trains under the “2025–2030 State Program for improving transport infrastructure in Baku and its surrounding areas” approved by the Decree of the President of Azerbaijan. During these talks, proposals submitted by the Chinese side were assessed, while technical, commercial and implementation aspects of the project were examined.

Meetings with CRRC Nanjing Puzhen Address Future Cooperation

As part of the visit, the ADY delegation also toured CRRC Nanjing Puzhen Co. and met with the company’s head, Yan Qi. During the discussions, Rustamov highlighted ADY’s interest in benefiting from the extensive expertise of CRRC Nanjing Puzhen Co., Ltd. in manufacturing passenger carriages, electric trains and other rolling stock products.

The delegation reviewed the company’s technological capabilities and discussed how these could support future initiatives aimed at modernizing ADY’s passenger transportation fleet. The meeting focused on technical and commercial matters linked to the potential purchase of 4 new passenger trains and 50 passenger carriages. Both sides exchanged views regarding train and carriage specifications, safety systems, passenger comfort features, maintenance capabilities, spare parts availability, staff training programmes and technology transfer opportunities.

Addressing participants at the conference, he emphasized the importance of ensuring that EU shipping remains competitive while navigating the industry’s transition toward cleaner energy solutions.

“Greece and Italy will continue to fight together for the competitiveness of European shipping and European ports, as well as for a fair and realistic energy transition of the maritime industry,” Kikilias said.

During a ministerial panel at the International Chamber of Shipping Summit, Kikilias pointed to the strategic value of shipping and port infrastructure, noting that approximately 90% of global trade moves by sea. He said Europe should capitalize on its maritime capabilities as an advantage while facing increasing economic competition from the United States and China.

According to the minister, future agreements involving shipyards, energy, shipping, marinas and the cruise sector are expected to remain closely tied to maritime activity, creating opportunities for both employment and economic expansion. He also highlighted the importance of cooperation among Southern European countries, stating that the Greek and Italian shipping communities are central to the European economy and maintain strong links with society and productive economic sectors.

Calls for Practical Energy Transition Measures

Kikilias also discussed the shift toward alternative fuels and the European Emissions Trading System (ETS), stressing that policy measures should be realistic and should not undermine EU shipping or encourage maritime traffic to relocate to non-European Mediterranean ports.

“We want ports where global shipping will find hubs, not policies that push our ships toward non-European ports in the southern Mediterranean,” he said.

The minister cautioned that excessive costs imposed on the shipping sector could eventually be passed through the economy, resulting in higher prices and additional pressure on consumers. He argued that European decision-makers should carefully consider the effects of policy measures on competitiveness, energy, transport and supply chains, warning that unrealistic approaches could negatively affect the industry’s long-term prospects.

Greece and Italy Deepen Maritime Cooperation

On the sidelines of the summit, Kikilias held talks with Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Matteo Salvini. Discussions focused on shared challenges facing the Greek and Italian maritime sectors, which together account for a significant share of European maritime activity.

Both sides agreed to continue coordinating efforts aimed at safeguarding European ports and supporting a balanced energy transition. The talks also covered supply chain resilience, closer bilateral cooperation and the promotion of common positions concerning the future of European shipping and Mediterranean ports.

Kikilias additionally met representatives from Cyprus, Italy and Malta, highlighting the common interests of Mediterranean nations within European shipping. He noted that these countries have developed a shared understanding through their maritime position and that cooperation among them has delivered results in a sector that remains vital to their economies and societies.

Further meetings were held with representatives of the International Chamber of Shipping and major maritime groups, where discussions centered on the contribution of global maritime organizations to the future direction of shipping. Participants also highlighted the importance of free navigation and protecting seafarers in the face of growing geopolitical challenges.

Speaking about Greece’s maritime sector, Kikilias said the Greek-owned fleet continues to rank among the strongest globally. He linked shipping with opportunities for younger generations, describing the industry as a source of well-paid employment and economic development. He also emphasized the historic role of Greece, Italy and Malta in building prosperity through maritime trade.

Eng Said bin Hamoud al Maawali, Oman’s Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, held talks with Saif Al Nasr al Tijani, Sudan’s Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, during the latter’s visit to the Sultanate of Oman. During the meeting, both sides reviewed opportunities to broaden cooperation across transport networks, port operations and logistics services. They also examined avenues for developing partnerships designed to serve the economic priorities of Oman and Sudan.

The discussions culminated in the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Asyad Ports and Free Zones, a subsidiary of the Asyad Group, and Sudan’s Sea Ports Corporation. The maritime sector and logistics agreement is aimed at strengthening links between the two countries in areas related to port management, maritime transport and logistics services.

The agreement was signed on behalf of Oman by Omar bin Mahmoud al Mahrizi, Chief Executive Officer of Asyad Ports and Free Zones, and on behalf of Sudan by Eng. Consultant Gilani Mohamed Gilani, Director-General of the Sea Ports Corporation.

Memorandum Targets Port Development and Maritime Integration

The maritime sector and logistics memorandum establishes a framework for collaboration in several strategic areas, including port planning and development, maritime infrastructure and the exchange of technical and administrative expertise. Through this arrangement, the two organizations will work together to support supply chain development while encouraging greater maritime integration between Oman and Sudan.

In addition to operational cooperation, the agreement includes provisions for training programmes, workshops and reciprocal visits. These initiatives are intended to strengthen institutional capabilities and facilitate the sharing of operational knowledge and experience. A major element of the partnership is the emphasis on digital transformation in the ports sector. Both parties agreed to explore the adoption of modern technologies and international best practices in port management and operations with the objective of improving efficiency and enhancing service quality.

Framework Created for Future Projects and Investment Opportunities

Officials noted that the maritime sector and logistics memorandum will provide a platform for evaluating future joint projects and investment opportunities that may reinforce maritime trade connections and improve logistical connectivity between the two nations. 

The latest agreement underscores the growing importance of Oman-Sudan maritime cooperation as both countries pursue stronger links in the maritime and logistics sectors. It also aligns with Oman’s wider efforts to expand international cooperation in logistics and maritime activities, which remain central pillars of the Sultanate of Oman’s economic diversification strategy and its ambition to strengthen its position as a regional trade and logistics hub. 

Enhancing market access and competition

This EU-Kazakhstan aviation agreement allows eligible airlines from the European Union to operate flights to Kazakhstan from any of the 17 Member States currently holding bilateral air services agreements with the country. By extending market access, the aviation agreement is expected to foster competition and provide greater legal certainty for operators.

The 17 Member States included in this arrangement are Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, and Sweden.

“This milestone reflects our shared commitment to strengthening cooperation, enhancing connectivity between our regions, and bringing our people and economies closer together,” Commissioner Tzitzikostas said following the signing.

A long-term diplomatic achievement

The EU-Kazakhstan aviation agreement represents a significant breakthrough, concluding negotiations that spanned more than two decades. Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to the European Union, Roman Vassilenko, characterized the deal as a vital step in improving air connectivity.

Integration into a broader strategic partnership

The EU-Kazakhstan aviation agreement was part of a comprehensive package of initiatives signed during the presidential visit. This includes a framework loan of up to €150 million from the European Investment Bank to enhance road links along the Trans-Caspian transport corridor. Additionally, the two parties established cooperation for a chemical analytical laboratory in Astana focused on critical raw materials.

Economic ties and future cooperation

Furthering the strategic partnership, negotiations were concluded on a Visa Facilitation Agreement and a Readmission Agreement to simplify travel for Kazakh citizens. During a concurrent business roundtable, Kazakhstan entered an agreement to purchase up to 50 planes from Airbus. The European Union remains the primary trade and investment partner for Kazakhstan, representing roughly one-third of its external trade. These developments follow the 2025 EU-Central Asia Summit, which elevated the bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership.

The aviation agreement will now undergo internal ratification procedures for both parties before it officially enters into force.

Tokayev noted the successful cooperation with Groupe ADP for aviation infrastructure will serve as a model for international collaboration. A key highlight of this partnership is the completion of the new international terminal, a project that has modernized the facility and successfully expanded the current airport capacity to 14 million passengers annually.

Long-Term Master Plan and Capacity Expansion

Philippe Pascal provided a report on the comprehensive master plan designed to guide Almaty Airport development through the year 2050. Under this investment program, the facility is projected to undergo massive scaling, with the goal of increasing total airport capacity to 55 million passengers per year. The meeting also touched upon the potential for extending the aviation cooperation to include the development of various regional airports across the country.

Pascal acknowledged the favorable regulatory environment established by the Kazakh government, which facilitates the efficient operation of aviation cooperation. President Tokayev further noted that the recently signed agreement between Kazakhstan and the European Union regarding air transport will provide a vital framework for the continued growth of the industry.

Strengthening Kazakhstan-EU Transport Links

The aviation cooperation talks with Groupe ADP occurred amidst a series of diplomatic engagements in Brussels, where President Tokayev met with European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Tokayev emphasized that the strategic partnership between Kazakhstan and the European Union has reached an unprecedented level. During these discussions, he stressed on the enhancement of transport and logistics connectivity.

The announcement was made during a high-level ministerial gathering hosted by Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Síkela and Commissioner for Sustainable Transport Apostolos Tzitzikostas. Ministers responsible for transport and senior officials from EU Member States, Armenia, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Moldova, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Türkiye, Ukraine and Uzbekistan attended the meeting, together with representatives from the G7 and international financial institutions. Discussions focused on progressing the Cross-regional Connectivity Agenda under the Global Gateway strategy.

New Framework to Coordinate Investments and Improve Corridor Performance

Through the newly established Connectivity Agenda Platform, participating countries, international financial institutions and other stakeholders will be provided with a structured framework to coordinate policy measures and investment activities spanning transport, energy, digital connectivity and trade. During the discussions, participants also agreed on the need to further improve the operational performance of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor. As part of this effort, they invited the Commission to evaluate how the corridor is functioning and identify priority measures aimed at enhancing its competitiveness.

Financial Commitments Support Cross-Border Connectivity Goals

To help deliver the objectives of the Connectivity Agenda, the Commission concluded statements of intent with international financial institutions that are expected to mobilise up to €2 billion. The funding is intended for transport infrastructure, border crossing points and trade facilitation measures throughout the Black Sea region and the South Caucasus. These planned investments are designed to improve cross-border connectivity and support smoother trade flows across across the Black Sea region and the South Caucasus.

Connectivity Agenda Builds on Earlier Regional Initiatives

The Cross-regional Connectivity Agenda was first presented during the Cross-regional Security and Connectivity Ministerial Meeting in Luxembourg in October 2025. As part of the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, the initiative seeks to strengthen transport, energy and digital links between the European Union and Central Asia through the South Caucasus and the Black Sea region by coordinating strategic investments and regulatory cooperation.

The importance of these efforts was further underscored at the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor (TCTC) and Connectivity Investors Forum in Tashkent in November 2025, where participants emphasized the corridor’s increasing strategic value as a resilient and efficient route connecting Europe and Central Asia.