Leonardo, the leading company in technology and defense, is preparing to transform its presence in the UAE into a comprehensive “industrial entity” next year. This transformation will mark a new phase aimed at enhancing manufacturing operations and localizing technology, making the UAE a pivotal center in global defense supply chains.
Announcement of the New Strategy
Carlo Gualdaroni, co-general manager of Leonardo’s business, announced in a special interview with CNN Business during the Dubai Airshow 2025 that the company is set to enter a new phase of its presence in the UAE. The current company office will be transformed into an industrial entity named “Leonardo Emirates” starting at the beginning of next year. The goal of this transition is to localize manufacturing operations and strengthen partnerships with local companies, enabling the UAE to play a larger role in global defense supply chains. This initiative is part of a significant expansion of Leonardo’s activities in the country, supported by new agreements with EDGE Group focused on developing solutions in defense systems.
Transition from Commercial Presence to Industrial Presence
During the interview, Gualdaroni noted that Leonardo’s history in the UAE spans decades. The company provides integrated systems in the electronics sector, in addition to the helicopter sector, which represents the largest part of its activities. Leonardo covers about 95% of the civil and government helicopter market in the UAE, making the country one of the company’s most prominent markets worldwide. This strong presence has contributed to the transition from “commercial presence” to “industrial presence,” as the team aims to produce Leonardo products within the UAE and export them to global markets.
Enhancing Industrial Partnerships
Gualdaroni explained that “Leonardo Emirates” will serve as a key platform for industrial partnerships with national companies, especially those focusing on advanced manufacturing. The company seeks to transfer skills and technologies to local teams to ensure the ability to manufacture high-quality local products. This approach also reflects changes in the geopolitical landscape, allowing the UAE to access broader markets compared to traditional European markets.
Investment in Human Resources and Capacity Building
Gualdaroni emphasized the importance of investing in human capital and enhancing the capabilities of local talents. This plan goes beyond establishing a new entity; it also includes comprehensive training programs in engineering and manufacturing. The goal is to transfer knowledge from Italian experts to local teams, enabling UAE companies to participate in design and production stages, not just in manufacturing operations. This initiative aims to ensure the sustainability of Leonardo’s operations within the country.
Alignment with UAE Government Goals
Leonardo’s announcement aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance national defense content in the UAE. Through programs like economic balance, the government encourages global companies to establish productive projects within the country, providing opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises to secure their place in supply chains. Collaboration with EDGE Group and Khalifa University reflects a shared vision in developing innovative defense solutions that align with the country’s aspirations in modern technology and artificial intelligence.
In conclusion, Gualdaroni affirmed that the establishment of “Leonardo Emirates” represents the beginning of a new phase of industrial cooperation with the state and is a “strategic transformation” aimed at manufacturing Leonardo products within the UAE and exporting them to global markets, thereby enhancing the UAE’s position as a leading destination in advanced defense industries.