Thales UAE strengthens aviation and space capabilities in the Emirates

Thales UAE has highlighted the United Arab Emirates’ emergence as a major aviation and space hub, driven by advanced infrastructure, strategic partnerships, and technology localisation. The Dubai-based subsidiary of the global engineering group focuses on supporting innovation, sustainable operations, and workforce development.

Speaking at the Dubai Airshow 2025, CEO Abdelhafid Mordi outlined how the UAE has created an environment for global companies to expand capabilities while developing local engineering expertise. Thales UAE combines local manufacturing with research and development to build sovereign aviation and space technologies.

Artificial intelligence is central to the company’s strategy, enhancing real-time decision-making, reducing fuel consumption, and improving operational efficiency. AI, combined with predictive analytics, enables early detection of aircraft faults, proactive maintenance, and minimises unnecessary component replacement, supporting safer and more reliable operations.

Thales expects its air traffic management innovations to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 10% by 2030. The company also anticipates that AI will play an increasingly important role in emerging technologies, including electric aircraft, eVTOL, and unmanned aircraft systems.

The fifth cycle of Thales’ Aviation X Lab, launched at the airshow, translates advanced concepts into practical solutions for commercial and governmental aviation operations. The lab supports sustainable growth and safety while preparing infrastructure and technology for the next billion air passengers.

Supporting national talent remains a priority. Thales UAE provides employment and training opportunities for Emirati engineers, with expanded cooperation with local institutions to transfer knowledge and consolidate intellectual property in the country.

At the Dubai Airshow 2025, Thales showcased solutions spanning aviation, space technologies, unmanned aircraft systems, advanced radar, low-Earth orbit satellite navigation, and avionics systems, underscoring its integrated approach to innovation and regional aviation leadership.

Explore the full report for a detailed look at Thales UAE’s strategies and technological impact on regional aviation.