In a strategic move to bolster the UAE’s position as a hub for advanced aviation technology, Khalifa University of Science and Technology has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Abu Dhabi-based startup LODD Autonomous. The partnership aims to merge academic research with industry expertise to foster talent in electric powertrain development, advanced aerospace mobility, and experiential learning.
The collaboration will specifically focus on the development of hybrid vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), a critical area for the future of logistics and transportation. The MoU was officially signed by His Excellency Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, and Rashid Mattar Al Manai, Chief Executive Officer of LODD Autonomous.
Bridging Academia and Industry for Aerospace Innovation
This partnership underscores a growing trend in the UAE of building a robust ecosystem where academic institutions and innovative startups work in tandem to solve real-world challenges and drive national strategic goals.
His Excellency Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri commented on the alliance, stating, “Khalifa University’s partnership with LODD Autonomous reflects our commitment to nurturing the next generation of engineering talent who will lead the advancement of sustainable aviation, advanced mobility, and clean energy technologies. By working with innovative industry partners like LODD, we ensure our students gain exposure to real world challenges and contribute meaningfully to the UAE’s future-focused sectors.”
Rashid Mattar Al Manai added, “Working with Khalifa University allows us to engage directly with young engineers and researchers while supporting the growth of advanced air mobility solutions in the UAE. This MoU represents an important step in aligning academic research with real operational needs.”
A Hands-On Approach to Talent Development
The collaboration is set to roll out several practical initiatives designed to provide students with invaluable industry experience. A key component will be a pilot project in Electric Powertrain Analysis and Design, involving Khalifa University’s undergraduate students.
The partnership also opens doors for sponsored graduate research through the university’s Advanced Power and Energy Center (APEC). Further enriching the student experience, the agreement includes joint technical lectures, coordinated industry-academic visits, and internship placements for students at LODD’s state-of-the-art facilities in Abu Dhabi, accelerating the development of skilled engineering talent within the Emirates.
About Khalifa University of Science and Technology
Khalifa University of Science and Technology is the UAE’s top-ranked research-intensive institution, focused on developing world leaders and critical thinkers in science, engineering, and health science. The university endeavors to be a catalyst to the growth of Abu Dhabi and the UAE’s rapidly developing knowledge economy as a global leader among widely acknowledged international universities.
About LODD Autonomous
LODD is an autonomous aerospace company headquartered in Abu Dhabi, pioneering the future of cargo transportation. Founded in 2023, LODD designs, develops, and deploys next-generation autonomous systems to tackle the emerging challenges of middle-mile cargo logistics. At the core of its innovation is Hili, LODD’s flagship UAV, engineered to transport payloads of up to 250 kilograms across distances up to 700 kilometres.
Source: Zawya
