Mubadala and Safran Boost Aerospace Collaboration in UAE

Mubadala Investment Company PJSC (Mubadala), Abu Dhabi’s sovereign investor, has joined forces with Safran, a leading French aerospace and defence corporation, to accelerate innovation in the UAE's aerospace industry. The partnership, unveiled during the Abu Dhabi Air Expo, focuses on critical areas including maintenance, manufacturing, human capital development, advanced materials, and space technologies.

Leveraging Expertise for Transformative Growth

The partnership combines Mubadala’s established aerospace assets, such as Strata Manufacturing and Sanad, with Safran’s extensive expertise. Together, they aim to redefine the aerospace landscape by expanding Sanad’s capabilities and exploring new partnerships within Safran’s diverse aerospace portfolio. The collaboration also seeks to enhance Strata’s aircraft structure manufacturing expertise, introducing engine component manufacturing to complement Mubadala’s existing strengths.

Nurturing Emirati Talent and Exploring Space Innovations

A key focus of this collaboration is the development of Emirati talent through joint training initiatives designed to upskill local engineers and aerospace professionals. With space emerging as a priority for Mubadala, the partnership unlocks opportunities in areas such as air traffic management, Earth observation, and propulsion systems. Moreover, Strata Solvay Advanced Materials will benefit from advancements in materials science, particularly for engine applications, further cementing the UAE's leadership in aerospace innovation.

“We are pleased to strengthen our long-term partnership with Safran, a global aerospace leader,” said Ismail Ali Abdulla, Executive Director of UAE Clusters, at Mubadala’s UAE Investments Platform. “As an national investor, we are dedicated to supporting the diversification of the UAE’s economy by building world-class national champions and fostering innovation in high-growth sectors. This agreement not only reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a premier aerospace hub but also underscores our shared commitment to upskilling local talent, empowering the next generation of engineers and professionals to lead in the global aerospace industry.”

"This strategic framework agreement marks a significant milestone in our partnership with Mubadala, contributing to positioning the United Arab Emirates as a global leader in aerospace innovation and manufacturing. By joining forces, we are enhancing our ability to support technological advancements, develop a skilled workforce, and promote aerospace excellence under the 'Made in the UAE' brand," declared Philippe Errera, EVP, International Development and Government Relations Safran.

Driving Economic Growth and "Made in the UAE" Excellence

This strategic agreement highlights Mubadala’s commitment to positioning the UAE as a global hub for aerospace innovation. By fostering technological advancements, cultivating a skilled workforce, and promoting the "Made in the UAE" brand, the Mubadala-Safran partnership is set to drive economic growth and establish Abu Dhabi as a leader in advanced manufacturing and technology.

A Milestone Agreement

The agreement was formalized with signatures from Amer Siddiqui of UAE Clusters and Mehdi Bouchenak, CEO of Safran Emirates, in the presence of Ismail Abdulla. This event marks the beginning of a transformative partnership, signalling a new era of aerospace collaboration between Mubadala and Safran.