In a strategic move aimed at solidifying the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's position as a regional hub for advanced technologies, His Excellency the Minister of Investment, Engineer Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih, inaugurated the Drone Club at the Tuwaiq Academy in Riyadh. This ambitious project is the result of a unique partnership between the Academy and the DCL (Drone Champions League), a world leader in organizing drone races, with the goal of building and developing national capabilities in this promising field.
General context and the Kingdom's Vision 2030
Drones are no longer just tools for photography or entertainment; they have become an integral part of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, playing a pivotal role in diverse sectors such as logistics, precision agriculture, construction, media, and security. The launch of the Drone Club directly with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 , which focuses on diversifying the economy away from oil, investing in human capital, and localizing modern technologies. The Tuwaiq Academy, an initiative of the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones, is the ideal platform to foster such initiatives that bridge the gap between academic education and the demands of the future job market.
The importance of the club and its expected impact
The club aims to create a stimulating and organized environment that brings together professionals, amateurs, and those interested in drone sports and technology under one roof. This initiative is expected to have a multifaceted impact:
- At the local level: The club will contribute to honing the skills of Saudi youth and preparing them to compete globally, and providing specialized national cadres capable of innovation and establishing startups in the fields of drone manufacturing, programming and operation.
- At the regional level: Launching the club in partnership with a global organization like DCL enhances Riyadh’s position as the capital of technology and innovation in the Middle East, which may attract specialized regional talent and events.
- At the international level: This step, which was attended by high-level officials, reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to attracting the best international expertise and partnerships, and providing an attractive investment environment aimed at transforming the Kingdom into a global platform for modern technologies.
Comprehensive features and professional software
The Drone Club offers a comprehensive range of benefits and activities to suit all skill levels, from beginners to professionals. These benefits include:
- Spaces equipped for safely experiencing and learning to fly drones.
- Professional camps and programs offered in cooperation with major international organizations.
- A training center dedicated to qualifying and developing the Saudi national drone racing team .
- Specialized training workshops and knowledge-sharing meetings with experts in the field.
- Organizing regular tournaments and competitions to develop a competitive spirit among members.
Registration and the beginning of a new journey
The launch ceremony coincided with the graduation of students from the FPV drone camps, who acquired advanced skills in drone construction and operation. The launch of eight new camps in the field was also announced, opening the door for a new generation of innovators. The academy has made registration available for those wishing to join the club through its official website here , and registration for the new camps can be done here .
