UAE Defence Sector Strengthens Regional Ties at Jordan Exhibition

The UAE's defence and security pavilion concludes a successful three day presence at SOFEX Jordan 2026, with high-level engagements and strategic industrial partnerships marking the participation.

The closing of the UAE Pavilion at the Special Operations Forces Exhibition and Conference in Aqaba marks the culmination of a carefully orchestrated diplomatic and commercial engagement. Over three days, the exhibition welcomed 4,514 visitors to explore the defence and security capabilities presented by participating Emirati entities at the Aqaba International Exhibition and Convention Centre.

His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Al Hussein graced the opening day with his presence, touring the pavilion to examine the products, technologies and solutions on display. The visit underscored the significance of the engagement, with the Jordanian royal visitor briefed on the breadth of capabilities represented by UAE defence and security organisations. Major General Majdi Mohammed Al Harasis, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the Jordanian Armed Forces, followed on the second day, receiving detailed presentations of the defensive and security solutions showcased.

The exhibition provided a platform for substantive industrial collaboration. As we reported in our coverage of the opening day, UAE defence and security entities showcased advanced technologies at SOFEX Jordan 2026, welcoming official delegations and securing strategic partnerships. EDGE Group formalised this commitment by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Jordan Design and Development Bureau, establishing a framework for exploring potential areas of collaboration and identifying opportunities for future joint initiatives between the two nations.

The exhibition floor reflected the depth of expertise within the UAE participation. EDGE Group highlighted advanced autonomous systems, electronic warfare, cybersecurity and precision effects capabilities. Multi Level Group presented its drone platform, whilst NICOMATIC featured specialised connectivity and engineering integration solutions tailored to aerospace, space and defence applications. Houbara Defence and Security presented its Bracer tactical satellite communications system and Obsidian counter drone system, alongside robotic solutions, autonomous target systems, and training and simulation technologies.

Throughout the three days, visitor numbers demonstrated sustained engagement: 1,105 on the opening day, 1,577 on the second day, and 1,832 on the final day. Official defence and security delegations from Arab and international countries moved through the pavilion, engaging with participating entities to discuss potential applications and explore areas for technological exchange and cooperation.

Capital Events, the event management arm of ADNEC Group which organised the pavilion, utilised the international platform to advance promotion of Abu Dhabi’s defence and security events. Meetings with international organisations and industry representatives introduced the 2027 editions of the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX), the Naval Defence and Maritime Security Exhibition (NAVDEX), the International Defence Conference (IDC), the Unmanned Systems Exhibition and Conference (UMEX) and the International Exhibition for National Security and Resilience (ISNR).

What it means for Abu Dhabi

The successful conclusion of SOFEX Jordan 2026 represents a significant moment for Abu Dhabi’s defence sector on the international stage. The industrial partnerships forged, particularly the EDGE Group memorandum with the Jordan Design and Development Bureau, establish frameworks for sustained cooperation and technological exchange with a key regional partner. This engagement strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a centre of advanced defence innovation and industrial capability, reinforcing relationships with governments and defence leaders across the Arab world and beyond.

The pavilion’s engagement with high level delegations and industry specialists positions Abu Dhabi’s defence and security entities favourably for future collaboration opportunities. The promotion of Abu Dhabi’s international defence exhibitions to this global audience of government representatives and industry leaders promises to elevate participation in IDEX, NAVDEX and associated events, reinforcing the Emirate’s role as a convener of world class defence and security dialogues.

Source: WAM

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