Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has signed off a partnership agreement aiming at revolutionising cultural storytelling through advanced drone technology.

According to a press statement, the agreement involves the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), Colorado-based Nova Sky Stories, and Emirati company Analog, which specialises in physical intelligence and mixed reality.

DCT Abu Dhabi says that this multi-year collaboration will introduce the world’s most advanced fleet of 10,000 light-show drones, marking a first-of-its-kind initiative in the region and the drones will be used to create large-scale immersive storytelling experiences across iconic locations in Abu Dhabi, blending the emirate’s rich heritage with its dynamic future.

The statement adds that the synchronised drone performances will weave artistic narratives that highlight Abu Dhabi’s history while embracing its forward-looking vision and by integrating cutting-edge technology into cultural entertainment, this initiative aims to attract global audiences and redefine immersive experiences.

DCT Abu Dhabi adds that this ambitious project aligns with Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to integrate innovation into its cultural and tourism sectors and it is expected to deliver memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike while reinforcing the emirate’s commitment to sustainable development and technological advancement.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak

“By harnessing innovative technologies, we are finding new and immersive ways to share our vision and culture with the world. At the intersection of creativity and entertainment, this partnership with Nova Sky and Analog will challenge convention, raising the bar for what residents and visitors can experience. These visual spectacles reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position in entertainment innovation, delivering experiential and memorable moments for all,” says Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman, DCT Abu Dhabi.

Kimbal Musk

“We are excited to be part of this partnership with DCT Abu Dhabi. With this pioneering initiative, Abu Dhabi is at the forefront of embracing innovation and will have the largest fleet of the most advanced light drones in the world for storytelling and entertainment. Nova empowers artists and musicians to bring their art to the sky and we cannot wait to show the world what is possible with a fleet this size,” says Kimbal Musk, CEO and Co-Founder, Nova Sky Stories.

Alex Kipman

“Abu Dhabi’s skyline is set to become a dynamic canvas for storytelling. We are painting holographic stories in the sky, fusing tradition with next-generation technology so audiences can feel that spark of wonder only possible when imagination meets reality. At Analog, we exist to birth new realities, and in partnership with Nova Sky Stories, DCT Abu Dhabi is reimagining what entertainment can be, one that honours Abu Dhabi’s heritage and sets the bar for immersive experiences worldwide,” says Alex Kipman, Founder and CEO, Analog.