Security, Aerospace & Defence

Abu Dhabi’s security, aerospace and defence industries have become a critical component of the emirate’s ongoing push to both protect critical national infrastructure and its interests abroad, as well as transform itself into a knowledge-based, diversified economy. Total military spending in the UAE stood at 5.1% of GDP in 2012 before rising to 6.1% in 2013 and then moderating to 5.7% in 2014. The UAE is the regional leader in defence manufacturing companies, with more than 80 firms focusing on shipbuilding, unmanned systems, and aviation and land systems. Meanwhile, the UAE’s space plans formally began in July 2014 with the announcement that the country would launch a scientific mission to Mars in 2021. This chapter contains an interview with Major General Mohammed Khalfan Matar Al Rumaithi, Commander-in-Chief, Abu Dhabi Police.