ARIDGE Expands Presence in the UAE with Groundbreaking Agreement
RAS AL KHAIMAH, UAE, Sept. 19, 2026 — ARIDGE, formerly known as XPENG AEROHT and recognized as the largest flying car company in Asia, has taken a significant step forward in its journey by signing a strategic partnership with Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. This agreement was made official in a ceremony attended by His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, alongside officials from the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA). Together, they plan to create a regulatory sandbox for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) in the UAE, which will help in developing a demonstration flight route connecting Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah.
This collaboration signals an important milestone, positioning ARIDGE as the first Chinese flying car enterprise to participate in a national regulatory framework in the Middle East. The establishment of this innovative testing sandbox is set to be the first of its kind dedicated to personal low-altitude flights.
Through the guidance of the Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA), ARIDGE will conduct tests that mimic desert flying conditions, assess aircraft performance, and refine operational procedures while navigating controlled airspace. This initiative aims to create a safe space for ARIDGE to validate its technologies and work closely with local authorities and partners in the aviation industry.
The proposed flight route from Abu Dhabi to Ras Al Khaimah will serve as a practical testing ground for learning about the needs of future air mobility services within the emirates. Key operational areas will include flight planning, safety management, airspace coordination, and passenger service protocols.
By integrating flight validation, regulatory discussions, and operational tests based on designated routes, ARIDGE aims to establish a strong foundation for the forthcoming commercial air mobility services in the UAE. His Highness Sheikh Saud emphasized the significance of technology in improving people’s lives and supporting economic growth. He stated that Ras Al Khaimah is committed to fostering innovation and using new technologies to enrich the lives of its residents and visitors.
Recently, ARIDGE showcased its latest flying car model, the Land Aircraft Carrier, during a reception held by the Chinese Embassy in Abu Dhabi. This event celebrated the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the 42nd anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the UAE. The demonstration received positive attention, providing guests with firsthand insight into ARIDGE’s groundbreaking technology.
The Land Aircraft Carrier reflects ARIDGE’s vision of merging ground and air tourism into a versatile solution. Its modular design aims to enhance the usability of both ground vehicles and aerial transport, creating exciting new experiences in the skies. Safety remains a top priority, with advanced systems allowing pilots to maintain control during flights.
ARIDGE’s efforts in establishing the regulatory sandbox and advancing its demonstration flight route are essential for the company’s aspirations in the global market. This initiative not only aims to deliver valuable operational insights but also supports ARIDGE in crafting air mobility solutions that can be adapted to various markets, including Europe and Southeast Asia.
For further updates about ARIDGE, interested individuals can follow their social media platforms or visit their website.
