H.H. Sheikh Hamdan highlights nation’s defence vision at naval college ceremony

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and the UAE's Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, attended the graduation ceremony of the 26th cohort of the Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Naval College in Abu Dhabi on Thursday.

The event featured a parade by the graduating cadets, who pledged loyalty to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and vowed to defend the UAE.

Sheikh Hamdan also honoured the top-performing cadets, wishing them success in serving the nation.

In his remarks, Sheikh Hamdan emphasised the UAE’s strategic focus on investing in people and advancing military capabilities, highlighting the importance of strengthening naval expertise as part of the nation’s defence readiness.

Brigadier General Hamza Mohammed Abdullah Al Shamsi, Commandant of the Naval College, thanked Sheikh Hamdan for his support, noting that the college is dedicated to preparing skilled national cadres to protect the country and its waters.

He also praised the advanced training provided to cadets, including academic programmes, field exercises, simulations and cutting-edge maritime security technology.

The ceremony concluded with a commemorative photo, as Sheikh Hamdan extended his best wishes to the graduates, encouraging them to excel in their military careers and make the nation proud.

Today, I attended the graduation of the 26th cohort of naval cadets at the Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Naval College and honoured the top graduates for their outstanding performance. We wish the young cadets every success as they take on their national duty in the Armed Forces.… pic.twitter.com/Vlq13ZB8nV

— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) February 12, 2026

The graduation ceremony of the 26th cohort of the Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Naval College in Abu Dhabi. pic.twitter.com/am8GWFF7i6

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) February 12, 2026