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UAE Unveils Al Selmiyyah Defence Industrial Free Zone in Abu Dhabi

The move signals a push to localise advanced military production in the UAE.

Overview

  • Al Selmiyyah, a dedicated defence manufacturing zone in Abu Dhabi, was announced through a partnership unveiled Wednesday between Tawazun Council and AD Ports Group.
  • Officials describe the project as the region’s first defence-focused free zone built to attract leading global contractors and localise production.
  • As a free zone, it will offer a streamlined setup for manufacturers, with Tawazun handling licensing and compliance and AD Ports leading master planning, land use and logistics links.
  • The plan aims to drive technology transfer, boost export readiness and draw more UAE small and mid-sized firms into defence supply chains.
  • Key details such as the opening timeline, investment amounts and anchor tenants have not been disclosed.