Platinum Group, Wiseman HK New Energy, and Upwards Solutions Technology launch JV in Abu Dhabi

New entity to accelerate regional energy transition with investment in smart grid, energy storage, and AI-driven management solutions, headquartered in the UAE capital

Published: Thu 11 Dec 2025
By Khaleej Times

A landmark agreement was signed in Abu Dhabi, formally establishing Wisemen Middle East, a pioneering joint venture between Abu Dhabi’s own Platinum Group, global new energy technology leader Wiseman HK New Energy, and UAE technology innovator company Upwards Solutions Technology. The new entity is poised to become a dominant force in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region’s rapidly evolving energy sector, focusing on the deployment of cutting-edge sustainable energy and smart city technologies. The agreement was signed by Platinum Group Managing Director Dr. Hanai Atatreh, Upwards CEO Abdullah Lei Shen, and Wiseman HK Chairwoman Ms. Li Feng, in the presence of Dr. Ali Naser Yabhouni Aldhaheri, CEO of Platinum Group, who witnessed the ceremony.

Platinum Group, Wiseman HK New Energy, and Upwards Solutions Technology launch JV in Abu Dhabi
New entity to accelerate regional energy transition with investment in smart grid, energy storage, and AI-driven management solutions, headquartered in the UAE capital

A landmark agreement was signed in Abu Dhabi, formally establishing Wisemen Middle East, a pioneering joint venture between Abu Dhabi’s own Platinum Group, global new energy technology leader Wiseman HK New Energy, and UAE technology innovator company Upwards Solutions Technology. The new entity is poised to become a dominant force in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region’s rapidly evolving energy sector, focusing on the deployment of cutting-edge sustainable energy and smart city technologies. The agreement was signed by Platinum Group Managing Director Dr. Hanai Atatreh, Upwards CEO Abdullah Lei Shen, and Wiseman HK Chairwoman Ms. Li Feng, in the presence of Dr. Ali Naser Yabhouni Aldhaheri, CEO of Platinum Group, who witnessed the ceremony.

The signing ceremony marks the culmination of months of strategic planning and collaboration. Wisemen Middle East will be headquartered in Abu Dhabi, leveraging the UAE’s strategic location, robust infrastructure, and its unwavering commitment to sustainability, as outlined in the UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative. The joint venture aims to integrate advanced hardware and intelligent software to deliver comprehensive, turnkey solutions for utility-scale energy storage, smart grid modernization, electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, and AI-powered energy management systems. The joint entity will also create local production of hardware equipment to serve the region’s needs.

The partnership creates a powerful synergy by combining the distinct strengths of each entity. Platinum Group provides deep regional expertise, extensive market access, and a strong track record in large-scale project development within the GCC. Wiseman HK New Energy brings its world-class research, development, and manufacturing capabilities in high-performance EV charging technology and energy storage systems to UAE. Upwards Solutions Technology contributes its proprietary AI and IoT platforms, which will serve as the intelligent core for optimizing energy distribution, consumption, and storage across the venture’s projects, while also providing the implementation expertise required for nation-wide project execution.

“Today marks a historic milestone not just for Platinum Group, but for the entire region’s journey towards a sustainable future,” said Dr Ali Naser Yabhouni Aldhaheri, CEO of Platinum Group. “By establishing Wisemen Middle East in Abu Dhabi, we are anchoring this transformative initiative right here at home. This venture is a direct response to our leadership’s vision for economic diversification and environmental stewardship. We are not just investing in technology; we are investing in a cleaner, smarter, and more resilient energy infrastructure for generations to come. Our JV with Wiseman HK and Upwards Solutions creates an unparalleled powerhouse of innovation and execution.”

Wisemen Middle East will commence operations immediately. The first phase of its strategic roadmap includes the development and deployment of regional super-fast chargers deployment with intelligent management. Subsequent projects will include smart grid pilot programs in key urban centers across the GCC and the rollout of a comprehensive EV fast-charging network powered by integrated solar and robotics solutions.

Feng Li, Chairwoman of Wiseman HK New Energy, commented on the venture’s technological promise: “The MENA region represents one of the most dynamic and ambitious markets for new energy solutions globally. We have been seeking a strategic entry point that aligns with our commitment to quality and innovation, and we have found the perfect partners in Platinum Group and Upwards Solutions. Our advanced battery and modular energy storage architecture are designed for high-temperature environments and long-duration applications, making them ideally suited for the challenges and opportunities in this region. Through Wisemen Middle East, we will bring our most advanced technologies to the forefront of the region’s energy transition.”

The venture’s focus on AI and data analytics seeks to be a key differentiator. The AI software platform, powered by Upwards Solutions Technology will enable predictive maintenance, real-time grid load balancing, and dynamic energy trading, maximizing the efficiency and economic viability of the deployed assets. This data-driven approach will provide utilities and large energy consumers with unprecedented control and insight into their energy usage.

“Energy hardware is only as effective as the software that controls it,” stated Mr Abdullah Lei Shen, CEO of Upwards Solutions Technology. “Our role in Wisemen Middle East is to bring the digital brain that unlocks the full potential of these incredible physical assets. Our AI algorithms will optimize every electron, from storage to consumption, ensuring reliability, reducing costs, and minimizing carbon footprint. We are thrilled to partner with industry leaders to create a truly integrated, intelligent energy ecosystem for the Middle East.”

The establishment of Wisemen Middle East is expected to create highly skilled jobs in Abu Dhabi in fields such as engineering, data science, and project management. The venture also plans to establish a local R&D hub to adapt and develop technologies specifically for the region’s unique climatic and market conditions, further cementing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global center for clean energy innovation.

UAE Economic Delegation Led by H.E. Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi Meets Mali High-Level Delegation and Private Sector to Enhance Bilateral Cooperation

On August 20, a high-level UAE economic delegation led by H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, received the Mali high-level delegation and private sector representatives at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The engagement focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in economy, trade, and strategic investment between the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Mali, marking another step in the UAE’s growing partnerships across Africa. Abdullah Lei Shen, Chief Executive Officer of Upwards, was among the UAE delegates and took part in discussions on future collaborations in technology, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation—highlighting innovation as a core component in advancing cooperation with emerging markets. During the session, both sides explored broad sectors of mutual interest including infrastructure development, renewable energy, healthcare, logistics, and education. The meeting reaffirmed a shared commitment to enabling sustainable economic growth, long-term development progress, and deeper strategic ties. The event also witnessed participation from leading UAE organizations such as G42, Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi Ports, and other key government and private entities—demonstrating the UAE’s collective vision of promoting globally impactful, innovation-driven partnerships. The meeting concluded with an agreement to continue technical talks and jointly identify frameworks for future cooperation—strengthening UAE–Mali relations and unlocking new opportunities for bilateral growth.

Upwards and Blackshark.ai join forces to reshape digital twin landscape in the region

In a move set to redefine the digital frontier, Upwards has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Blackshark.ai, combining visionary leadership with cutting-edge technology to deliver advance intelligence digital twin platforms and solutions tailored for the UAE’s rapidly evolving innovation ecosystem.

The collaboration brings together Blackshark.ai’s global expertise in semantic 3D geospatial intelligence with Upwards Solution’s strategic acumen and regional insight. This joint endeavour aims to accelerate the adoption of next generation’s intelligent digital twins across critical sectors, from urban infrastructure and smart cities to energy, mobility, and security.

What sets this partnership apart:

AI-powered geospatial intelligence: Using Blackshark.ai’s proprietary simulation technology, real-world environments can be replicated in near-real time, enabling predictive modeling, scenario planning, and risk analysis on a national scale.

Localised innovation: Upwards brings a deep understanding of UAE’s infrastructure goals, regulatory frameworks, and market needs; ensuring that solutions are not only visionary but also actionable.

Scalable, secure platforms: Built for interoperability, the digital twin platforms offer robust cybersecurity, cloud-based scalability, and seamless integration with existing data ecosystems.

This partnership underscores a shared commitment to Emirates Vision 2031, aligning with national efforts to foster resilient, tech-enabled cities and boost digital sovereignty. Through this synergy, government agencies, developers, and strategic planners will gain unparalleled access to immersive and data-rich digital environments, empowering faster decision-making, optimised resource allocation, and sustainability tracking.

“By joining forces with Blackshark.ai, we are not just adopting technology — we are shaping the future of intelligence AI Infrastructure in the UAE and region,” said Abdullah Lei Shen, CEO of Upwards.

The joint platform is poised to roll out strategic pilots in urban planning, autonomous mobility modeling, and energy grid optimisation, with full-scale deployments expected by early next year.

Upwards Executive Management Hosts Former Prime Minister of Armenia

Upwards Executive Management Hosts Former Prime Minister of Armenia, H.E. Tigran Avinyan, to Discuss Smart City Development and IoT Initiatives
Abu Dhabi, 21st April- Upwards received H.E. Tigran Avinyan, the Deputy Mayor of Yerevan City and former Prime Minister of Armenia, to their office in Abu Dhabi. The visit, along with his delegation, was aimed at fostering collaboration and exploring opportunities for technological advancements in smart city initiatives.

During the productive meeting, the Upwards executive management team and H.E. Tigran Avinyan discussed a wide range of topics centered around smart city development and the Internet of Things (IoT). The discussions focused on leveraging technology to enhance the quality of life for residents, promote sustainable growth, and streamline urban infrastructure management.
Upwards, recognized for its expertise and innovation in IoT solutions, presented their extensive knowledge and demonstrated their proficiency in harnessing technology to drive IoT and smart city innovation. The esteemed guests were impressed with the company’s successful track record and valuable insights, which have resulted in transformative solutions for numerous cities worldwide.

Both parties expressed their enthusiasm for potential future collaborations, which aim to capitalize on Upwards’ expertise and experience to further develop smart city projects in Yerevan and other regions of Armenia. The meeting laid the foundation for a strong partnership that will drive innovation and improve the lives of citizens through technology-driven solutions.
Upwards remains committed to leveraging its advanced technological capabilities to create sustainable, connected, and resilient cities. With a keen focus on delivering practical and impactful solutions, the company continues to push boundaries, collaborating with governments, municipalities, and industry leaders to shape the cities of tomorrow.

Shaping the Future of Aviation in Abu Dhabi

Falcon Aviation is partnering with UAE, Abu Dhabi entities and Archer, under the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC), to advance electric air taxi operations. Witnessed by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, this agreement sets the stage for the first commercial eVTOL flights in Abu Dhabi. For nearly two decades, Falcon Aviation has led in aviation excellence. This partnership reinforces our commitment to innovation and sustainability, supporting Abu Dhabi’s vision as a global hub for smart mobility.

UAE’s oldest-running refiner Emirates Gold gets new owner

Dubai: One of the UAE’s biggest gold refiners, Emirates Gold, has been bought by Bright East Holding 1, which is an ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market) licensed entity that operates in the venture capital and private equity space.

Bright East’s takeover of Emirates Gold adds to its reach in the metals and commodities space. The value of the deal has not been disclosed. The DMCC-based Emirates Gold is into refining and minting of coins and bars. Its operations also cover smelting and assaying (which is to do with determining the quality of gold).