Dubai Crown Prince Chairs UAE Defence Council Meeting, Reviews Strategic Modernisation Plans
Dubai, The Gulf Observer: His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum chaired the second Defence Council meeting of 2026, where senior defence officials reviewed key programmes aimed at enhancing the effectiveness, readiness, and long-term development of the United Arab Emirates’ defence system.
The meeting assessed ongoing initiatives aligned with the Ministry of Defence’s strategic direction, focusing on strengthening operational efficiency and ensuring that the defence framework continues to meet the highest international standards.
During the session, Sheikh Hamdan underscored the importance of advancing the UAE’s defence capabilities in line with global best practices, while maintaining a strong emphasis on readiness across all military sectors to safeguard national security and protect the country’s achievements.
The council discussed comprehensive development and modernisation plans spanning various defence sectors, including initiatives designed to enhance operational preparedness and reinforce both human and technical capabilities within the armed forces. Future projects supporting the Ministry of Defence’s long-term priorities were also reviewed.
The meeting was attended by Lieutenant General Issa Saif bin Ablan Al Mazrouei, Chief of Staff of the UAE Armed Forces; Lieutenant General Staff Ibrahim Nasser Al Alawi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Defence; along with senior officers of the UAE Armed Forces.
Officials reiterated that continued investment in modernisation, training, and technological advancement remains central to the UAE’s strategy for maintaining a highly capable and future-ready defence establishment.
