Sector ٤
Defense
Advisory for international defense contractors and manufacturers entering the UAE through its dedicated defense free zone.
A sector of growing strategic importance.
Defense has long been an established industry in the UAE. The current regional environment has accelerated the Emirates' intent to attract international defense companies — manufacturers, contractors, technology providers and support services — through a dedicated defense free zone designed specifically for the sector.
A new initiative, grounded in local experience.
The defense free zone represents a new chapter for the UAE's defense ecosystem. For international companies exploring participation, the landscape is still being defined — licensing frameworks, government procurement pathways and the commercial ecosystem are developing in real time. PAAD provides a grounded, experienced advisory presence as that landscape takes shape.
Exploration and establishment.
Our service begins with discovery — helping international defense companies understand the possibilities, assess the commercial case for UAE establishment, and navigate the free zone entry process. From there we support the full corporate setup, licensing and government engagement required to operate within the zone and pursue government contracts.
Local experience as your advantage.
In a sector where relationships and local knowledge matter as much as capability, PAAD's decades of experience within the UAE government and commercial ecosystem provide a meaningful advantage. We understand how decisions are made, how procurement works, and how international companies build credible, lasting presence in the Emirates.