UAE plans to establish global defence manufacturing hub

The UAE is planning to establish a global defence manufacturing hub in partnership with South Korea’s LIG Defense and Aerospace.

The Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement has signed a memorandum of understanding on the sidelines of the 'Make it in the Emirates' forum in Abu Dhabi.

The move aims to strengthen the UAE's defence and security industry capabilities through a locally incorporated entity, with a focus on research, manufacturing, maintenance and supply chain integration.

Officials say the partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing the UAE’s defence industry, boosting local manufacturing and attracting international investment.

"By attracting leading global companies to establish a presence in the UAE through a landed company structure, we are deepening industrial integration, strengthening national capabilities, and reinforcing the UAE's position on the global defence map," said Shareef Hashim Al Hashmi, Director-General, Industry Development of Tawazun.

Gunhyuk Lee, MENA President, LIG D&A, said that the UAE's defence industrial ecosystem offers a compelling environment for global manufacturers to establish, scale and innovate.

"This MoU with Tawazun marks an important step in our commitment to contributing to the UAE's national defence industrial growth," he added.

Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement and the Korean LIG Defence & Aerospace have signed an MoU to explore and develop cooperation in the field of defence and security industry development, to establish a global defence manufacturing hub in the UAE through a landed company… pic.twitter.com/Bb2VZdcGJg

— Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement (@TawazunCouncil) May 5, 2026