In a significant display of military cooperation, the President of the UAE, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain recently witnessed the joint military exercise “Rabbadan – Shuayman” 2025. This event underscores the strong ties between the UAE and Bahrain while focusing on enhancing operational readiness among the participating forces.
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed arrived in Bahrain for a working visit and was warmly welcomed by King Hamad bin Isa, who was present at the Khalifa Air Base to greet the esteemed leader and his accompanying delegation. A host of sheikhs and senior Bahraini officials also came to extend their welcome.
The visiting delegation included prominent figures such as Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense; Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior; Sheikh Diab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chief of the Presidential Court for Development Affairs and Martyrs’ Families; and several other ministers and senior officials from the UAE.
Strengthening Military Readiness
The joint military exercise “Rabbadan” aims to enhance the readiness levels of the participating units and develop collective operational capabilities between the UAE and Bahrain. The activities included various drills and joint operations designed to improve planning and execution skills, boost the efficiency of air support and ground deployment, and prepare for different operational scenarios under all conditions.
Tour and Ceremonial Honors
During the visit, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and King Hamad toured the training sites, where they greeted senior military officers from both nations who participated in the exercise. They were briefed on the exercise’s activities and the accompanying exhibition. King Hamad presented service medals, including the “Service Medal,” to several UAE officers in recognition of their exemplary skills.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
As a gesture of goodwill, King Hamad hosted a luncheon in honor of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and his delegation, providing an opportunity for both leaders to exchange friendly conversations reflecting the deep ties of brotherhood between their nations. They reaffirmed their commitment to continue strengthening these bonds for the benefit of their peoples.
Upon concluding the visit, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed was bid farewell by King Hamad and a number of sheikhs and senior officials, marking the end of a meaningful engagement that underscores the enduring partnership between the UAE and Bahrain.