The UAE has announced plans to establish a new defense industrial free zone in Abu Dhabi as part of efforts to strengthen national security, expand domestic manufacturing capabilities, and attract global defense partnerships.

The Tawazun Council for Defense Enablement and AD Ports Group have formally unveiled a strategic partnership to develop the Al Selmiyyah Defense Industrial Free Zone in the UAE capital.

The initiative aligns with the UAE’s broader ambition to build an advanced and sustainable national defense industrial base capable of supporting long-term readiness and localizing production.

The new industrial zone is expected to support domestic defense manufacturing and attract leading original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and international defense companies to establish operations in the UAE.

Officials said the project aims to facilitate technology transfer and create high-value industrial partnerships, linking local capabilities with global expertise.

According to the partners, Al Selmiyyah is intended to position the UAE as a global hub for advanced defense manufacturing, while contributing to sustainable economic growth and advancing national industrial priorities.

Under the agreement, the Tawazun Council will oversee regulatory and licensing frameworks, ensure alignment with national defense capability priorities, and supervise the industrial compliance ecosystem.

Meanwhile, AD Ports Group will act as a strategic partner and advisor, leading master planning, infrastructure and land-use planning, and broader industrial zone development. The company will also support phased implementation and integration with regional and international trade networks.

Dr. Nasser Humaid Al Nuaimi, Secretary-General of Tawazun Council for Defense Enablement, described the initiative as “a strategic milestone in the development of a sophisticated national defense industrial ecosystem built on strengthening sovereign capabilities and expanding high-value industrial partnerships.”

Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive of AD Ports Group, said the partnership aligns with the UAE leadership’s vision to strengthen the country’s position as a global center for advanced industries.

“Al Selmiyyah Defense Industrial Free Zone represents a strategic addition to our free zones portfolio and underscores our ability to attract and develop high-value, priority sectors within an integrated ecosystem of advanced infrastructure and global logistics services,” he said.