The United Arab Emirates announced the development of the Al Selmiyyah Defence Industrial Free Zone in Abu Dhabi. The Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement and AD Ports Group formed a strategic joint venture to establish the dedicated manufacturing hub. The initiative represents a major step in advancing national plans to build an advanced and sustainable defence industrial base, according to the state news agency WAM. The project aims to boost national security and long-term defense preparation.
The new zone will attract leading global original equipment manufacturers. The infrastructure enables domestic production and supports the expansion of existing industrial operations. The joint venture focuses on establishing high-value partnerships to build national capabilities and accelerate technology transfer to local manufacturers. The development will also enhance the participation of national companies and small and medium enterprises within domestic defence supply chains.
Nasser Al Nuaimi, Secretary General of the Tawazun Council, stated the partnership marks a strategic milestone in developing a sophisticated national defence industrial ecosystem. He noted the initiative strengthens sovereign capabilities and accelerates the growth of the industrial base. The project aligns with government priorities regarding industrial sovereignty and contributes to broader objectives to advance high-tech manufacturing sectors.
Tawazun Council assumes responsibility for developing the regulatory and licensing frameworks for Al Selmiyyah. The state body will align the project with national defence capability priorities and oversee the industrial compliance ecosystem. The council currently serves as the primary authority for defence and security acquisitions for the UAE Armed Forces and Abu Dhabi Police. Founded in 1992, the organization enables strategic investments in local manufacturing and has facilitated the establishment of more than 90 companies across 11 key sectors.
AD Ports Group serves as the strategic partner and advisor for the zone. The organization will lead the master planning process, shape land use, and manage infrastructure development. Capt. Mohamed Al Shamisi, managing director and group chief executive of AD Ports Group, stated the partnership reinforces the position of the UAE as a global hub for advanced industries. He described Al Selmiyyah as a strategic addition to the free zones portfolio of the company, highlighting its capacity to attract high-value sectors within an integrated global logistics ecosystem.
The expansion of the defence manufacturing base aligns with the broader UAE industrial strategy known as Operation 300bn. Launched in 2021, the initiative aims to position the nation as a global industrial hub by 2031. The overarching agenda focuses on priority industries, including advanced manufacturing, machinery, equipment, and technology.
The push to localize military manufacturing follows heightened regional tensions and the recent Iran conflict. While the companies have not disclosed specific investment figures or a completion timeline, the new free zone project aims to reduce national reliance on imported defense equipment. Government officials continue to pursue multibillion-dollar investments in advanced technologies to secure supply chains and ensure long-term defense readiness.
