Open Skies Network and Jekta, the Swiss developer of the Passenger Hydro – Zero Emissions 100 (PHA-ZE 100) electric amphibious aircraft, have agreed a strategic partnership to bring electric amphibious air travel to the Arabian peninsula, potentially as early as 2031.

The companies will define a network of locations where regional air mobility can be established as the quickest, most economically and environmentally advantageous way to connect remote regions of the GCC with urban hubs, opening up a raft of luxury, leisure, civil and business opportunities.

The announcement comes as Open Skies Network confirmed visits to the United Arab Emirates in January 2026 to meet key partners and identify suitable locations where amphibious operations can integrate into broader, related RAM and eVTOL aircraft infrastructure.

Gareth Whatmore, CEO of Open Skies Network, says: “The United Arab Emirates is known around the world for its visionary approach and ability to deliver world-leading infrastructure projects. With the first sub-30 mile electric aircraft flights likely to take place in the region before 2027, it is the perfect time to look ahead to the next phase of advanced air mobility. By integrating sustainable aircraft and mobility solutions across water and land, such as Jekta's aircraft, we can seamlessly connect the peninsula's touristic gems while avoiding terrestrial gridlock and ensuring passengers enjoy the quality of experience the region is known for.

“Jekta's amphibious aircraft enjoys a unique market position that aligns closely with our culture and values, and we're delighted to be working alongside it to realise our vision for future-proofed, decarbonised regional flight.”

Open Skies Network is a leading developer of infrastructure and ecosystems that support a variety of drone and eVTOL uses, having successfully delivered world-first projects for the likes of Royal Mail and the NHS in the UK. It has already partnered with 20 UK port locations, agreeing a phased-adoption roadmap that will see investment in infrastructure and regulatory compliance to support Jekta's UK market entry in 2030.

Wouter du Preez, CIO at Jekta, remarks: “We're pleased to be working with Open Skies Network to support the infrastructure evolution, which will enable us to optimise possibilities. The UAE and the whole GCC is rich with potential for Jekta, and having already received significant interest, including forward sale agreements for our aircraft from global operators and leasing entities keen on GCC expansion, we see it as a cornerstone of our commercial development.

“The PHA-ZE 100's multiple-operating parameters, attractive per-set economics, versatile interior configurations and sustainable qualities will add a new mode of transport to fill gaps currently left by mobility assets that can only operate on either land or water. With the ability to operate on paved, unpaved and water runways, we can expand routes and opportunities in the UAE, GCC and beyond, including southern Europe and north Africa.”

The global market for existing regional aviation and rail exceeds $0.5 trillion, with the introduction of larger, sustainable electric aircraft offering significant potential to disrupt the industry, connecting people, places and cargo more quickly, greenly and efficiently.