Abu Dhabi:Strategic Development Fund (SDF), an investment entity based in Abu Dhabi and wholly owned by EDGE Group, has announced a new agreement to increase its ownership in MARIX, a UAE-based maritime technology company, to a majority stake. This agreement is with Sovereign Global Solutions Limited (SGS), which will retain a minority stake in the company.
According to Wam, the investment is a continuation of SDF's initial minority stake acquisition in MARIX in 2022, aimed at supporting the development of the company's first prototype, the MARIP-12. This prototype, now operational, marked SDF's confidence in MARIX's technology. The new agreement reinforces SDF's commitment to advancing maritime technologies and industrial capabilities in the UAE, aligning with EDGE Group's strategy.
MARIX, formerly known as Sovereign Global Solution Middle East, specializes in the design, production, and operation of uncrewed and autonomous surface vessels. As the UAE expands its energy production capacity, MARIX is well-positioned to meet the increasing demand for efficient offshore solutions.
Coinciding with the agreement, SDF announced the completion of the design phase for MARIP-24, MARIX's next-generation uncrewed surface vessel. This vessel, equipped with autonomous capabilities, will soon move towards production in the UAE. MARIP-24 builds on the experience of MARIP-12 and is designed for larger and more complex offshore missions.
Abdulla Naser Al Jaabari, Managing Director and CEO of SDF, stated that the increased participation in MARIX aligns with EDGE Group's strategy to invest in advanced technologies with dual-use applications. Muaatassem Awda, Chairman of MARIX, highlighted the significance of MARIP-24 in expanding offerings to customers requiring larger vessels for complex operations.
Jerome Paolini, Shareholder and Director of SGS, expressed support for SDF becoming the majority owner, emphasizing the shared commitment to MARIX technology and its potential in the international market.
MARIP-24 is set to debut publicly at ADIPEC 2026 in Abu Dhabi, where it will be featured at the MARIX stand, showcasing the company's platforms and future technology roadmap.