From AED50,000 to 3 million: Dubai gets a showroom for humanoid robots

Yousef Lootah, founder of Lootah Robotics, has revealed the opening of a specialised showroom for humanoid and intelligent robots in Dubai. The facility currently features 28 robots, with prices ranging from AED50,000 to AED3 million. Plans are in place to increase the number of robots in the coming days and move towards local manufacturing in the UAE in the future, amid growing investment opportunities in the robotics and artificial intelligence sector. Lootah said the showroom, located on Sheikh Zayed Road, houses multi-purpose robots, including those used for cleaning homes, skyscraper facades, streets and warehouses, as well as robots for reception, hospitality and customer service. He explained that some of these robots can be programmed to communicate in various languages and perform a range of tasks, such as serving coffee and greeting visitors. He added that the company provides sales, rental, operation, maintenance, programming and training services, with hourly, daily, monthly and annual rental options. Costs vary depending on the type of robot and its capabilities, and can reach thousands of AED per day and tens of thousands of AED per month. He emphasised that expanding the use of robots will help reduce operating costs, increase productivity and improve business efficiency, particularly in sectors that rely on repetitive or physically demanding tasks. He pointed out that tower-cleaning robots represent a promising opportunity in Dubai, given the prevalence of skyscrapers and their ability to carry out cleaning tasks quickly and efficiently while enhancing safety standards. Yousef Lootah, founder of Lootah Robotics He explained that these technologies will not necessarily eliminate human jobs. Instead, they will redirect employees towards the supervision, operation and management of smart systems, reducing their exposure to risks and harsh working conditions. Ideal environment for investment Dubai is one of the world's most advanced cities in adopting modern technology and artificial intelligence, Lootah said. He described the emirate as an ideal environment for investing in the robotics industry and developing its applications. He predicted that within the next 10 years, robots will become a common sight across Dubai, from homes and streets to companies, shopping centres and institutions. They will perform tasks such as domestic assistance, reception and administrative services, and even help children with their studies. He pointed out that this expansion aligns with the objectives of the Dubai Robotics and Automation Programme, which aims to deploy 200,000 robots by 2032. He added that he expects Dubai to surpass this target given its rapid technological development. Lootah said the company currently relies on importing robots manufactured outside the country, while aspiring to localise production in the UAE in the future. He noted that this would create new investment opportunities in the advanced technology sector. The company is also focused on training young people and children in robot programming and operation through specialised programmes.