UAE-founded Wipe Technologies is expanding its ambitions beyond conventional transport services, developing its Orbit Nine venture into a platform connecting global mobility with commercial space tourism and emerging space technologies.Founder and chief executive Mohammed Rameez Iqbal is positioning the company for its next phase of growth after establishing a mobility network that Wipe says extends across more than 180 countries, 3,500 airports and 2,500 cities.
Orbit Nine, initially introduced as a space tourism initiative, is being developed to facilitate access to commercial space experiences, international partnerships and opportunities for companies operating in the expanding space economy.
The venture represents a diversification of Wipe's business model, which has focused on integrating transport services through digital platforms and partnerships rather than relying exclusively on traditional vehicle rental operations.
Iqbal has outlined plans to connect terrestrial transport, advanced aviation and commercial space services through a broader mobility ecosystem. The strategy envisages customers accessing different transport categories through integrated arrangements with specialised providers.
Wipe's existing services encompass car rentals, chauffeur-driven transport and other mobility solutions. Its stated ambitions also include helicopter transfers, private aviation, air taxis and emerging transportation technologies.
The company's international footprint reflects its claimed service coverage rather than independently verified ownership of transport infrastructure or operating subsidiaries across every market. Financial information detailing revenue, profitability and transaction volumes has not been publicly established.
Orbit Nine's proposed activities include facilitating zero-gravity experiences, suborbital journeys and orbital missions through relationships with organisations involved in commercial human spaceflight.
Such services remain subject to considerable operational, regulatory and financial constraints. Space tourism requires specialised vehicles, qualified operators, stringent safety arrangements and regulatory authorisation, distinguishing it substantially from conventional passenger transportation.
The venture is also extending its proposed activities beyond passenger experiences. Wipe has identified opportunities to support space technology businesses seeking international commercial relationships, market access and partnerships.
These activities could involve connecting developers of space-related technologies with potential customers, investors and commercial collaborators. However, the scale of Orbit Nine's operational capabilities and any binding agreements with launch providers have not been independently established.
Iqbal has emphasised the importance of developing commercial infrastructure alongside technological innovation, arguing that access to specialised services can become a significant business opportunity as new industries mature.
His approach draws on Wipe's existing model of aggregating mobility services supplied by different operators, although applying that model to space transportation presents substantially different commercial and regulatory challenges.
The company has linked Orbit Nine's development to increasing international interest in human spaceflight and the wider commercial applications of space technology.
NASA's Artemis programme has contributed to renewed attention on lunar exploration, while private companies continue developing launch vehicles, spacecraft and services for commercial customers.
Nevertheless, government exploration programmes and private space tourism operate under different financing structures, technical requirements and regulatory frameworks. Progress in one sector does not automatically establish commercial demand in another.
Orbit Nine's proposed role therefore centres on facilitating connections within the industry rather than independently manufacturing spacecraft or conducting orbital launches.
Wipe has also identified cross-border collaboration as an important element of its expansion strategy. Its founder has participated in discussions involving aerospace specialists, technology entrepreneurs and organisations associated with the international space industry.
Iqbal has expressed interest in commercial partnerships linking established aerospace markets with emerging technology businesses, including opportunities involving the UAE and other international innovation centres.
The UAE provides a base for the company's activities, although Orbit Nine's proposed international reach will depend on commercial agreements, regulatory compliance and the availability of suitable services.
Wipe's expansion plans come as mobility businesses increasingly examine digital aggregation, automated booking systems and partnerships to extend their geographical coverage without necessarily owning every asset used to deliver services.
The company's stated strategy includes applying technology to service coordination, customer access and operational efficiency. Details of investment commitments specifically allocated to Orbit Nine have not been publicly disclosed.
The commercial space market also presents significant uncertainty over pricing, insurance, liability and the frequency with which civilian passengers can undertake specialised journeys.
For Wipe, the immediate distinction remains between services available through its established mobility network and proposed space-related offerings that depend on further commercial development.
Orbit Nine was announced in February 2026 as a Wipe-powered initiative covering space tourism, with its subsequent positioning extending towards technology partnerships and commercial opportunities beyond passenger travel.
The company continues to identify Wipe Ride and Wipe Flex as components of its terrestrial mobility operations, alongside the separately branded Orbit Nine initiative.
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