On September 21, 2026, it was announced that prominent military officials from Gulf nations are expected to attend the upcoming Marrakech Air Show 2026. Countries such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are preparing high-level delegations for this significant event, which focuses on aerospace and defense. Scheduled to take place from October 7 to 10 at the Royal Air Forces base in Marrakech, the show is anticipated to showcase a strong presence from Gulf states, with several top-ranking military leaders among the distinguished guests.
According to Intelligence Online, the Saudi and Emirati governments are organizing substantial military delegations to Morocco, although the identities of the attendees have yet to be disclosed. This high-profile participation is expected to enhance the diplomatic significance of the Marrakech Air Show, which will not only bring together manufacturers and suppliers but also facilitate meetings among military chiefs, government officials, and leaders within the defense industry.
UAE's Defense Industry Takes Center Stage
The Emirati presence is set to extend beyond military officials, as the UAE's national pavilion has confirmed its participation in the international tour of 2026, following its appearance at the Eurosatory exhibition held in Paris in June. This industrial delegation, supported by the Emirati Ministry of Defense and the Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement, typically includes several national companies, among which is EDGE Group, a leading producer of arms, drones, guided munitions, and military technologies based in Abu Dhabi.
In previous editions, EDGE leveraged the opportunity to showcase guided weapons, drones, precision munitions, and cybersecurity systems in Morocco, and its return to the Air Show is indicative of the UAE defense industry's growing international presence. Alongside Emirati exhibitors, many American, European, Asian, and Israeli companies are also expected to participate. Notably, the Canadian manufacturer INKAS is set to present an AI-guided drone and two armored vehicles, while L3Harris will showcase its new military aircraft, the Skyraider II.
The Marrakech Air Show 2026, officially scheduled for October 7-10, aims to highlight both civil and military aviation, drones, artificial intelligence, space technologies, and advanced defense systems. The anticipated arrival of high-ranking military officials from Gulf nations further solidifies the role of the Moroccan event as not merely an exhibition of equipment but as a critical meeting point for defense industrialists and key military decision-makers in the region.
As reported by bladi.net.
