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AI Innovations for a Better Tomorrow

Zayed University Convention Center, Dubai, UAE

September 24th and 25th, 2025

AI-Enabled Autonomous Drone Operations for Smart Infrastructure: DJI Dock 3 and AirHub

Date: Thursday, September 25th, 2025
Time: 12:30 – 16:30
Chair: Nikin Mohan James, Ali Seto
Venue: Conference Room no. 5

This workshop introduces participants to the future of autonomous unmanned aerial systems through DJI Dock 3 and AirHub, showcasing how AI-driven autonomy is transforming smart infrastructure management. Attendees will gain insights into how these platforms enable persistent, automated drone operations for applications such as infrastructure inspection, site monitoring, and urban asset management. 

The session will cover the architecture of the Dock 3 ecosystem, the role of AirHub in mission planning and fleet management, and how AI enhances operational efficiency and safety. Participants will also explore real-world case studies demonstrating how autonomous drones can reduce costs, improve data quality, and enhance decision-making for utilities, construction, and smart city development.

By the end of the workshop, participants will understand the capabilities, regulatory considerations, and practical applications of AI-enabled autonomous drone systems, and how these innovations contribute to building safer, smarter, and more sustainable cities.

Nikin Mohan James

Nikin Mohan James is an Aeronautical Engineer with over 18 years of expertise in UAV systems and aerial technology. He currently serves as Chief Drone Officer at FEDS Group, where he leads drone operations across utilities, energy, agriculture, and disaster management sectors. His experience spans fixed-wing and multirotor UAVs, payload optimization with LiDAR, thermal, and RGB sensors, as well as BVLOS frameworks. Nikin has directed high-stakes drone deployments across the Middle East, including powerline inspections, flare monitoring, and disaster response. A certified DJI and senseFly specialist, he has also trained pilots, developed SOPs, and spearheaded R&D and franchise expansion initiatives. His career reflects a strong focus on blending technical innovation with scalable operations to deliver real-world impact through aerial technology

Ali Seto

Ali Seto is a marketing and business leader with over 15 years of experience driving growth, brand strategy, and market expansion across the Middle East and Asia. He currently serves as Managing Director of FEDS Drone Academy and Marketing Director at FEDS Drone-powered Solutions, where he has played a pivotal role in transforming FEDS into a globally recognized drone company. Ali has also led The Drone Centre as Head of Marketing, securing DJI Enterprise’s regional leadership and building dealer networks. His career includes senior regional marketing roles at Interface and projects with Dubai Tourism, where he developed high-impact campaigns, strategic partnerships, and market-specific engagement strategies. With a background in economics and marketing from the University of Indonesia, Ali combines cross-cultural expertise with a proven track record in scaling businesses, forging partnerships, and positioning brands at the forefront of innovation

Sponsors

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