The UAE has signed AED3.776bn ($1.03bn) in defence and security contracts on the opening day of the 2025 Dubai Airshow, underscoring the country’s growing influence in advanced military procurement and industrial capabilities.
Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement (Tawazun) announced eight agreements on behalf of the Ministry of Defence with local and international companies.
The announcement was made by official spokespersons Majed Ahmed Al Jaberi, Abdulla Ahmed Al Saeei and Manea Abdulkarim Al Mansoori.
They highlighted the central role of the Directorate of Planning and Procurement, which oversees execution of the agreements and ensures strategic alignment, supplier engagement and operational efficiency across the UAE’s defence ecosystem.
UAE local defence contracts
Abdulla Al Saeedi detailed six local contracts signed on behalf of the Ministry of Defence with a total value of AED3.041bn ($830m).
These included:
- Global Air Navigation Services (GANS): AED1.294bn ($352.4m) for air navigation services and specialised manpower
- Global Aerospace Logistics (GAL): AED600m ($163.4m) for follow-on support, spare parts and technical support
- International Golden Group (two contracts):
- AED415m ($113.1m) for follow-up support for aircraft
- AED299m ($81.4m) to produce airdrop parachutes
- Maximus Air: AED293m ($79.8m) to rent aircraft
- Abu Dhabi Shipping Agency: AED137m ($37.3m) to rent aircraft
UAE international contracts
Manea Al Mansoori announced two international deals worth AED725m ($197.5m):
- Airbus Helicopters (France): AED512m ($139.4m) for H Care services for helicopters
- Embraer (Brazil): AED212m ($57.7m) to produce VIP aircraft
Majed Al Jaberi said the agreements reflect Tawazun’s commitment to deepening strategic partnerships with national and international defence firms, reinforcing the UAE’s integrated defence ecosystem and supporting enhanced capability development.
The spokespersons added that the Dubai Airshow remains a global platform for defence and aerospace innovation, positioning the UAE as a leading hub for advanced industries and knowledge-based economic growth.
The 2025 edition places strong emphasis on sustainability, artificial intelligence-driven solutions, advanced mobility and space technologies—making it the largest and most future-focused edition so far.
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