UAE National Pavilion To Showcase Defense Innovations At 7th Marrakech Air Show In Morocco

The UAE National Pavilion will take part in the 7th Marrakech Air Show, Africa's top event for the aviation industry. The Emirates Defense Companies Council (EDCC), along with support from the Ministry of Defense and Tawazun Council, is organizing the National Pavilion.

The show will be held at a military airbase in Marrakech, Morocco, from Oct. 30 to Nov. 2 under the theme "Excellence and Innovation." This platform allows UAE defense companies to showcase their advanced products and technologies and connect directly with representatives from governments and companies worldwide.

This year, the exhibition will cover 12,500 square meters, featuring over 200 exhibitors and more than 75 official delegations. After a five-year break—since the last event in 2018 before COVID-19—this edition is expected to have record participation.

The event will include impressive aerial displays, along with high-level seminars and meetings that will discuss new trends and important issues in the aviation and defense sector.

"The Marrakech Air Show serves as an ideal platform for fostering new partnerships and exploring the latest technologies, with the presence of key players in the aviation sector," Mona Ahmed Al Jaber, Chairwoman of the EDCC, was quoted as saying by WAM.

"Since its inception in 2008, the exhibition has experienced exceptional growth, reinforcing its significance and establishing it as one of the world's leading exhibitions in aviation and aerospace," she added.

She explained that the National Pavilion's participation aligns with the Council's strategy to strengthen international relationships and share expertise with various stakeholders.

Al Jaber emphasized the Council's dedication to supporting local talent, helping them grow internationally, and establishing themselves as top companies in the global defense sector.

She highlighted that the National Pavilion at the Marrakech exhibition marks the fifth international defense event for UAE companies this year, with the Council set to wrap up its 2024 participation at the Bahrain International Air Show and China Air Show next month.

Khalifa Al Blooshi, CEO of Calidus said, "Our participation in such international exhibitions allows us to enhance our presence on the global stage and build strategic partnerships."

"The ongoing support from the Council drives us to showcase our most advanced products and technologies in the defense industry, contributing to the expansion of our business and increasing our competitive capabilities," he added.

The pavilion will feature nine local UAE companies that specialize in different areas of the defense industry, like aerial systems and advanced technology. These companies include Edge Group (with ADASI, AL TARIQ, ADVANCED CONCEPTS, HALCON, LAHAB, and CARACAL), as well as Venture One, Calidus Aerospace and Key Technologies.

The Marrakech Air Show is held under the patronage of King Mohammed VI of Morocco and organized by the Ministry of Industry and Trade along with the National Defense Administration, with support from the Royal Air Force.

This exhibition is one of the world's top platforms originating from Africa, bringing together selected companies and experts to present the latest advancements in aviation, aerospace, and defense technology.