Located in the innovative hub of Masdar City, a local aerospace firm is carving its niche in the industry. Air Q, led by CEO Dino Dedic and CTO Igor Pongrac, exemplifies the fusion of visionary ideas, determination, and an enabling environment.
The journey began with a bold ambition: to develop advanced UAV systems entirely within the UAE. Initially a five-person team with a grand vision, Air Q has since evolved into a fully established aerospace entity, having successfully launched its inaugural aircraft and grown its influence in the region’s technology sector.
Recently, the team attended the “Make it in the Emirates” exhibition in Abu Dhabi, not merely as presenters but as reflective participants. Organized by the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC) alongside various partners, this event is taking place from May 19-22, 2025.
“Navigating through the exhibition was a moment to reflect on our journey and envision our future,” shared CEO Dedic.
Since its inception in Masdar City, Air Q has thrived in an environment tailored to support clean technologies and progressive industries. From day one, the focus has been on creating UAVs that address the unique challenges of the region, producing modular and resilient aircraft that can endure the extreme desert conditions.
CTO Igor Pongrac, an expert in systems engineering, has spearheaded the technical efforts. Under his guidance, Air Q has developed a UAV platform that excels in endurance and thermal resilience, specifically catering to the region’s requirements.
Meanwhile, CEO Dino Dedic, only 35 and with a rich background in entrepreneurship and a love for aviation, has set the broader vision for the firm. Together, they have fostered a company culture that prioritizes precision, ambition, and a commitment to innovation—creating an appealing environment for engineers and innovators from across the UAE and beyond.
The company’s significant early achievement was Harara, its first UAV project. More than a mere prototype, Harara served as evidence that the team could navigate the entire developmental process internally. “Harara marked our inception,” noted Pongrac. “It was more than just an aircraft—it was our commitment to innovation.”
True to its name, Harara was engineered to function in extreme heat, and its success heralded a new chapter for the company, initiating broader discussions about the potential of a UAE-based UAV manufacturer.
Earlier this year, Air Q had the honor of showcasing its vision at IDEX, one of the premier tech events in the region. Participation in such a prestigious gathering represented not just a milestone for the young startup but an opportunity to highlight local innovation.
“Our aircraft wasn’t sourced from a catalog,” explained Pongrac. “It emerged from countless hours of testing and a commitment to designing rather than purchasing.”
Though not exhibiting at the Make it in the Emirates event, the team left with renewed inspiration. The event’s emphasis on creating, investing, and developing within the UAE resonated deeply with them.
<p“Make it in the Emirates strikes a chord with us,” Dedic remarked. “It goes beyond manufacturing; it’s about dedicating ourselves to constructing something authentic, enduring, and integral to this place.”
As the Air Q team walked through the exhibition, engaging with fellow innovators and witnessing the nation’s progress, they felt a part of something much larger. “Even without a booth, we embody that ethos every single day.”
Looking forward, Air Q is gearing up for the next phase: expanded flight testing, enhanced industry collaborations, and increased production capacity, all anchored in Abu Dhabi. “Our aspiration is not merely to be made in the Emirates, but to be made for the Emirates. That’s what sets us apart,” stated Dedic.
In a nation that encourages ambitious ideas and strives for an innovative future, Air Q stands as a subtle yet remarkable success story that has taken flight—and is just beginning its journey.
A Staff Reporter
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