Nauticus Robotics secures up to $50M financing for UAE expansion

February 9, 2026, by Nadja Skopljak

U.S.-based developer of subsea autonomous robotic systems and software Nauticus Robotics has secured an investment of up to $50 million to establish an autonomous robotics manufacturing and offshore services hub in the UAE.

Nauticus Robotics has signed an agreement for a strategic investment of up to $50 million with Master Investment Group, contemplating an initial $3 million investment tranche for its UAE business unit startup activities, with additional capital available to support further expansion.

The proposed investment will fund the establishment of the company’s first international manufacturing and offshore robotics services hub in the UAE. Nauticus said it had initiated the formation of a local legal entity in the UAE and completed preliminary identification of a potential site for the planned facility.

Once operational, the facility is expected to support expanded production of the Aquanaut autonomous subsea roboticplatform, delivery of offshore robotic services across the Middle East and adjacent regions, and future deployment of additional Nauticus robotic and software technologies.

“This proposed investment represents a meaningful step forward in our global growth strategy. Establishing Aquanaut manufacturing and offshore services in the UAE allows us to accelerate deployment, reduce delivery timelines, and better serve customers across international markets. Fleet expansion is fundamental to building the company, and this relationship represents an important first milestone toward that objective,” said John Gibson, President and CEO of Nauticus Robotics.

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Master Investment Group is expected to fund facility development, workforce localization, and initial manufacturing capability, as well as support the Aquanaut in securing an initial deployment contract in the region.

“We are excited to enter into this strategic relationship with Nauticus and to support the establishment of advanced autonomous robotics capabilities in the UAE. This initiative reflects our commitment to attracting world-class technology, building high-value industrial capacity, and positioning the UAE as a regional center for robotics, automation, and next-generation offshore services,” said Sheikh Abdulla Al Qassimi, Managing Director of Master Investment Group.

“We see significant long-term potential in this collaboration, not only for Nauticus’ growth, but for the development of local talent, innovation, and sustainable industrial infrastructure across the UAE.”

The proposed transaction is subject to required third-party and governmental approvals. Subject to final approvals, the initial operational capability is expected this year.