The Strategic Development Fund (SDF), owned by EDGE Group, has entered an initial partnership and investment agreement with Machina Labs, a US firm known for AI-led manufacturing and robotics. The agreement follows discussions completed at the Dubai Airshow 2025 and sets the basis for a joint venture focused on producing advanced metal structures in the region through Machina Labs’ software-driven factory systems.
The agreement includes an initial investment and allows for further SDF funding of up to AED 125 million. Both organisations will study how Machina Labs’ manufacturing tools can be used in the UAE and the wider region. They will review needs in aerospace, defence, mobility and other sectors that depend on advanced production methods.
Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director & CEO of EDGE Group, said: “This collaboration between SDF and Machina Labs aligns with EDGE Group’s vision to accelerate the UAE’s growth in advanced industrial capabilities and future technologies. Partnerships that explore next-generation manufacturing solutions play an important role in supporting EDGE’s developmental roadmap and the nation’s position towards industrial sovereignty and excellence through innovation.”
Abdulla Naser Al Jaabari, Managing Director & CEO of SDF, said: “Our collaboration with Machina Labs follows our hybrid investment approach, which includes investing in startups developing next generation technologies related to dual-use industries while developing strategic partnerships that localize high-value technologies.”
“SDF has identified several potential requirements where our project with Machina Labs will be able to contribute towards the EDGE ecosystem and SDF portfolio.”
“We are glad to have taken the first step with this initial investment, which will be followed by further capital as our partnership progresses.”
Machina Labs’ main system is the RoboCraftsman™, a robotic cell that carries out forming, scanning, trimming and drilling, with welding and assembly systems built in. It does not rely on traditional tooling, which allows faster production, easier design changes and scalable output of complex metal components.
Edward Mehr, CEO and Co-Founder of Machina Labs, said: “We are pleased to establish this initial partnership with the Strategic Development Fund as we explore opportunities to bring our intelligent robotics to the UAE. The country’s commitment to industrial innovation, combined with EDGE Group’s strategic vision and SDF’s advanced investment strategy, creates an ideal environment for adopting next-generation manufacturing technologies. Once finalized, this partnership strengthens our ability to scale our business via rapidly deployable production capacity for defense and strategic sectors and programs.”
Machina Labs designs its factories so that full production capacity can be set up in a short timeframe. This reduces lead times and makes it possible to launch new manufacturing sites in weeks rather than years. The system may help the UAE strengthen its industrial base and build a more stable supply chain.
SDF’s work with Machina Labs forms part of its effort to identify technologies that may support future national industry goals. SDF will continue to work with partners to assess how these capabilities could be used within the UAE and the value they may offer.
