In the United Arab Emirates, Onda has rapidly demonstrated its value across a range of high-stakes environments. From enhancing public safety to supporting large-scale infrastructure inspections and enabling smarter urban management, its autonomous drone-in-a-box systems have become a trusted asset for both governmental and private stakeholders. Built for scale and resiliency, Onda’s platform offers real-time situational awareness, precise data capture, and seamless integration into existing workflows—all while minimizing the need for human intervention.

 

This operational success has earned Onda a reputation as one of the most reliable and forward-thinking aerial autonomy providers in the region, proving its ability to scale across complex environments and deliver tangible outcomes.

 

A strategic fit for the kingdom

 

The expansion of Onda into Saudi Arabia comes at a time when the Kingdom is investing heavily in next-generation infrastructure, smart city development, and AI-integrated security systems. With vast territories, critical national infrastructure, and mega-projects such as NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea Development in progress, Saudi Arabia presents a unique environment where autonomous drone systems are not just helpful—they are essential.

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The scale of development underway demands real-time data, aerial intelligence, and autonomous monitoring solutions that can function across harsh geographies and sprawling urban zones. Onda’s autonomous systems are purpose-built for such conditions. Their ability to operate independently—regardless of terrain, weather, or light—makes them ideal for deployment in remote construction zones, large-scale logistics hubs, border areas, and industrial corridors.

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From a policy perspective, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 calls for the integration of high-tech solutions across public services, logistics, safety, and environmental sustainability. Onda directly supports these priorities by offering a platform that improves efficiency, reduces human risk, and enhances decision-making through intelligent data collection.

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Establishing a Saudi-based joint venture

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In partnership with a leading Riyadh-based family, Karen Thomasine is advising and facilitating the establishment of a new Saudi-based joint venture to localize Onda’s operations. This JV will not only bring cutting-edge aerial systems into the Kingdom but also promote domestic capability-building through knowledge transfer, employment, and manufacturing alignment with national content goals.

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By anchoring its presence in the Kingdom, Onda will be able to better serve government entities, industrial players, and giga-project developers—ensuring solutions are tailored, secure, and ready to scale. The JV structure allows for operational autonomy while deeply aligning with local vision and execution frameworks.

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Unlocking multi-sector deployment at scale​

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Onda’s technology has high-impact applications across multiple industries, including:

• Energy & Utilities: Real-time pipeline and grid inspection in hard-to-reach areas

• Logistics: Inventory mapping and site security at ports and distribution centers

• Construction & Urban Development: Progress tracking and site safety compliance

• Defense & Security: Perimeter monitoring, rapid response, and tactical visibility

• Environmental Monitoring: Coastal protection, air quality assessment, and land-use tracking

 

Saudi Arabia’s demand for such systems is not just emerging—it’s already here. The country’s scale, pace of development, and forward-leaning regulatory approach create the ideal launchpad for autonomous aerial infrastructure.

 

Looking ahead

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Onda’s entry into Saudi Arabia marks more than geographic expansion—it signifies the beginning of a new chapter for aerial autonomy in the region. As the Kingdom moves toward smarter cities, safer infrastructure, and more agile national operations, Onda is positioned to serve as a trusted technology partner.

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At Karen Thomasine, we are proud to support this journey—advising on strategic structure, facilitating stakeholder engagement, and helping ensure that the skies of tomorrow are intelligent, secure, and built for the future.