• Strategic partnership to establish advanced Al Ain aerospace center

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Tawazun Council and Mubadala Investment Company are partnering to reshape the aerospace landscape with a cutting-edge aircraft engine Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Al Ain. This strategic collaboration underscores the UAE's commitment to becoming a global aerospace leader and will significantly contribute to the nation’s economy.

Announced at IDEX 2025, this landmark project establishes the first engine MRO of its kind in the MENA and South Asia regions. Developed by Sanad in collaboration with Pratt & Whitney —a global leader in aerospace technologies—the state-of-the-art Al Ain facility will provide comprehensive MRO services and empower a new generation of Emirati talent.

H.E. Dr. Nasser Humaid Al Nuaimi, Secretary General of Tawazun Council, commented: “Tawazun Council is committed to a robust national vision for industrial growth, with a strategic emphasis on developing the UAE's sovereign capabilities in the aerospace sector. This partnership with Mubadala and Pratt & Whitney is a key element of this strategy, fostering a thriving aerospace industry and reinforcing the UAE's position as a global leader in aerospace.”

Dr. Bakheet Al Katheeri, Chief Executive Officer of Mubadala’s UAE Investments Platform, said: “This partnership between Mubadala and Tawazun is a clear demonstration of the Mubadala UAE Investments Platform delivering on its mandate. We are building national champions in the aerospace sector, fostering a vibrant aerospace ecosystem, and partnering with world-class entities like Pratt & Whitney to accelerate the transformation of Abu Dhabi’s economy. This collaboration is a key component of our nation's economic diversification strategy, solidifying Abu Dhabi and the UAE's position as a global leader in aerospace and a hub for innovation.”

Ismail Ali Abdulla, Executive Director of UAE Clusters at Mubadala's UAE Investments Platform, said: “This MRO partnership between Mubadala, Tawazun, and Pratt & Whitney is a significant step forward in the UAE's economic transformation. It directly contributes to our objective of creating a knowledge-based, innovative, and diversified economy. This alliance strengthens the UAE's aerospace industry, demonstrating how strategic investments drive growth and create high-quality jobs for Emirati talent.”

Building on a legacy of 38 years in aircraft engine MRO and leveraging its extensive network of global partnerships, Sanad is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of aerospace and driving innovation across the industry.

About Tawazun Council

Tawazun Council, is a key government authority that works closely collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Defense and security agencies, tasked with supporting acquisitions, and budgeting for defense procurement.

The Council is also responsible for setting the and implementing regulations, quality standard, and products in close collaboration with strategic partners to ensure the achievement of its objectives of promoting excellence and innovation in the defense and security sector in the UAE.

The Council's responsibilities include research and development in the fields of defense and security, enhancing the growth of national industrial ecosystem, in addition to attracting qualitive investments, and developing industrial zones in way that contributes to enhancing the competitiveness of national industries at the global level.

About Mubadala Investment Company

Mubadala Investment Company is a sovereign investor managing a global portfolio, aimed at generating sustainable financial returns for the Government of Abu Dhabi.

Mubadala’s $302 billion (AED 1,111 billion) portfolio spans six continents with interests in multiple sectors and asset classes. We leverage our deep sectoral expertise and long-standing partnerships to drive sustainable growth and profit, while supporting the continued diversification and global integration of the economy of the United Arab Emirates.   

For more information about Mubadala Investment Company, please visit: www.mubadala.com

For media inquiries, please contact:
Tawazun Council
Donia Alaaeldin Hassaan
Content Development Officer,
Strategic Communications
Corporate Communications Executive Affairs
dhassaan@tawazun.gov.ae

Mubadala
Mai Shoeib
Head of Communications
UAE Investments
mshoeib@mubadala.ae