Tawazun Unveils AED 3.77 Billion Defence Contracts On Opening Day Of Dubai Airshow 2025
The 19th Dubai Airshow commenced with Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement announcing significant contracts. On behalf of the Ministry of Defence, Tawazun signed eight agreements worth AED 3.776 billion with both local and international companies. This announcement was made during a press conference featuring Majed Ahmed Al Jaberi, Abdulla Ahmed Al Saeei, and Manea Abdulkarim Al Mansoori as spokespersons.
Abdulla Al Saeedi detailed the local contracts, which totalled AED 3.041 billion. These included a deal with Global Air Navigation Services (GANS) valued at AED 1.294 billion for air navigation services and specialised manpower. Another agreement with Global Aerospace Logistics (GAL) was worth AED 600 million for follow-on support, spare parts, and technical assistance.

Manea Al Mansoori highlighted international deals totalling AED 725 million. A contract with Airbus Helicopters from France was valued at AED 512 million for H Care services for helicopters. Additionally, Brazilian company Embraer secured an AED 212 million contract to produce VIP aircraft.
Local contracts also included two agreements with International Golden Group. One was for follow-up support for aircraft at AED 415 million, while the other involved producing airdrop parachutes worth AED 299 million. Maximus Air received an AED 293 million contract to rent aircraft, and Abu Dhabi Shipping Agency got a contract worth AED 137 million for similar services.
The Dubai Airshow is recognised as a global platform promoting innovation in defence and aerospace sectors. This year's event emphasises sustainability, AI-driven innovation, advanced mobility, and space exploration. It positions the UAE as a hub for advanced industries and knowledge-based economies.
Majed Al Jaberi stressed that these agreements enhance Tawazun's strategic partnerships with national and global defence firms. This supports the UAE's defence capabilities through an integrated ecosystem that boosts the competitiveness of the Emirati defence industry regionally and internationally.
The Directorate of Planning and Procurement plays a crucial role in executing these contracts efficiently. They ensure excellence in procurement services through strategic planning, supplier engagement, and operational implementation with transparency to achieve national impact.
This edition of the Dubai Airshow is noted as the largest yet, focusing on future-oriented themes that align with global trends in defence technology development.
With inputs from WAM