Robo.ai and Eleven International Holding have launched Alif Holding. The new AI industrial group is based in Abu Dhabi and will focus on government and critical‑infrastructure projects across the UAE and GCC. The partnership reflects a broader trend of UAE firms joining forces to accelerate AI adoption.
Integrated platforms target robotics, automation and AI software
Under the banner "Building Intelligent Industries", Alif Holding is built around two integrated platforms. The intelligent equipment platform covers robotics and automation, advanced composite materials, and intelligent equipment and manufacturing. The equipment platform aims to meet the rigorous standards required for government‑grade deployments.
The intelligent software platform includes industrial AI, computer vision, AI agents and large language models, digital twin, and data and analytics. "Governments, critical infrastructure operators and industry across this region are investing in artificial intelligence at national scale, and they need partners able to deliver complete systems end to end. That is why Alif Holding was established — created in the UAE, serving the world," said Benjamin Zhai, Chief Executive Officer of Robo.ai. The software platform’s focus on digital twin and analytics supports the growing need for real‑time operational insights in critical sectors.
Governments, critical infrastructure operators and industry across this region are investing in artificial intelligence at national scale, and they need partners able to deliver complete systems end to end. That is why Alif Holding was established — created in the UAE, serving the world.
— Benjamin Zhai, Chief Executive Officer, Robo.ai
Manufacturing roadmap and alignment with national AI strategy
The group plans to set up engineering, assembly and production facilities in Abu Dhabi, delivering on a "Made in UAE" proposition. Its development roadmap follows four phases: acquiring proven global technologies, integrating them into a unified platform, manufacturing in the UAE to international standards, and scaling into regional and global markets. By establishing local production, the group also seeks to create skilled jobs and foster technology transfer within the emirate.
Alif Holding’s approach is technology‑neutral and open‑architecture, partnering with international AI, robotics, sensor, software, communications and public‑safety technology firms. The initiative aligns with the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 and Abu Dhabi’s push to become a centre for AI and advanced industry. PwC estimates AI could add close to US$96 billion to the UAE economy by 2030, about 13.6% of GDP. The strategy underscores Abu Dhabi’s ambition to be a regional hub for AI‑driven industry.
Frequently asked questions
What is Alif Holding and where is it based?
Alif Holding is a new AI industrial group based in Abu Dhabi, launched by Robo.ai and Eleven International Holding.
What sectors will Alif Holding serve?
Alif Holding will serve government and critical-infrastructure sectors across the UAE, GCC, and beyond.
What is the focus of Alif Holding's intelligent software platform?
Alif Holding's intelligent software platform includes industrial AI, computer vision, AI agents, large language models, digital twin, and data and analytics.
