Top Startups Leading The UAE’s Defence Tech Revolution

The United Arab Emirates has always been known globally for its diplomatic activity. But make no mistake, they have been strategically investing in defence science and technology behind the scenes.

Instead of being a regional importer, the UAE has become a homegrown innovator and exporter of high-tech military systems. And innovators like the Make It In The Emirates Accelerator and Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund are ensuring that connectivity and AI are being embedded in their defence tech.

What Does The UAE’s Defence Tech Landscape Look Like?

Currently, the country’s defence tech ecosystem is a layered one – not just dominated by one or two companies. There are existing big industrial groups anchoring the market, like the Emirates Defence Group (EDGE). Meanwhile, smaller startups are specialising in specific capabilities such as satellite systems, AI and robotics.

The development of these systems tie in with the UAE’s broader, long-term plans. Specifically, the UAE Vision 2031, which encourages the local manufacturing of technologies to be integrated into defence and civilian sectors alike.

Top Defence Tech Startups In The UAE

With a foundation of intelligent automation and resilient communication, let’s take a look at some of the key companies who are shaping defence tech innovation in this gulf nation.

1. Calidus

Calidus has been building and designing next-generation aerospace and land systems for military use for over a decade. Based in Abu Dhabi, the company locally manufactures armoured vehicles and missile systems, building a broad defence portfolio simultaneously.

In 2025, Calidus attended the Istanbul Defence Expo where it drew significant international interest. Later that year, they partnered with Safran, a global aerospace company to improve its aerial delivery capabilities. This agreement has combined Calidus’s local manufacturing with Safran’s global expertise, helping the UAE to build more advanced airborne systems.

2. FFbots

FFbots is a perfect example of how robots are leaving labs to take on real-world safety and defence roles. The Dubai-based startup builds robots to help first responders and defence forces in fires and disaster zones. These bots are able to enter dangerous areas to support human teams without putting them at direct risk.

The company’s robots are manufactured with autonomous navigation and remote control capabilities, allowing them to reach places where their operators cannot go or where it’s unsafe to do so. Their technology isn’t strictly military hardware, but it has been able to allow for safer operations in emergency situations.

3. Thuraya

Founded in 1997, Thuraya isn’t quite a startup but rather a well-established satellite communications provider at the heart of defence-grade tech in the Middle East. Originally, the company was the UAE’s first mobile satellite operator but has now expanded, building a network of geostationary satellites for areas with unreliable or non-existent terrestrial networks.

Thuraya has successfully raised funds over multiple rounds since its founding and eventually acquired by Yahsat. This acquisition reflects its strategic value to keeping the country secure and connected.

4. Drydocks World

Drydocks World was established by Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum and has now grown into a world-class shipyard and offshore engineering centre. They oversee the repair and maintenance of ships which is critical for fleet readiness and naval logistics.

The company also underwent a South Yard expansion which was able to significantly increase their capacity to manage more complex offshore marine and wind projects. Their support services remain essential to maintain maritime strength and maintain naval vessels over time.

5. SIRBAI

SIRBAI is a defence tech startup specialising in AI-powered autonomous systems, specifically intelligent drone swarm technology. At UMEX 2026, a global exhibition focused around unmanned systems and robotics, the company unveiled their advanced drone swarm platform. Currently, SIRBAI is one of the first companies in the Middle East to provide AI co-ordinated drone systems for defence use.

These drone swarms carry out surveillance, force protection and combined manned-unmanned missions, giving defence forces flexible capabilities to respond efficiently to changing conditions.

6. Thales Emarat Technologies

Thales Emarat Technologies (TET) is the UAE’s local extension of Thales, the global defence giant, specialising in localisation and joint innovation. The company was founded in 2019, introducing radar, sensor, training and digital technologies into the UAE’s defence ecosystem.

TET has developed radar and surveillance systems including next-generation air and ground monitoring equipment as well as AI-powered services for defence readiness and integration. They have successfully been able to take imported knowledge and turn it into homegrown talent and capabilities, strengthening the UAE’s overall defence position.