Sheikh Hamdan Chairs UAE Defence Council’s First 2026 Meeting

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the UAE, chaired the first Defence Council meeting of 2026.

The meeting was held as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the UAE’s defence capabilities and improve military preparedness in line with approved strategic visions.

During the session, the Defence Council reviewed several key topics related to the modernisation of the defence sector. Discussions included the adoption of new technologies, along with plans and programmes aimed at improving readiness and institutional efficiency.

The Council also reviewed a number of initiatives linked to future development plans for the defence sector and the strategic objectives of the Ministry of Defence. These efforts are intended to further enhance the capabilities of the UAE Armed Forces and support them in carrying out their national duties with full dedication.

The meeting forms part of the Ministry’s continued work to drive comprehensive development and ensure a high level of readiness across the Armed Forces.

The meeting was attended by His Excellency Mohamed bin Mubarak bin Fadhel Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Defence Affairs; Lieutenant General Issa Saif bin Ablan Al Mazrouei, Chief of Staff of the UAE Armed Forces; and Lt. General Staff Ibrahim Nasser Al Alawi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Defence, along with senior officers from the Armed Forces.