Abu Dhabi Considers New Entity to Drive Global Defense Ambitions

Officials in Abu Dhabi have held preliminary talks on creating a new defense-focused investment vehicle, people familiar with the matter said, as part of the United Arab Emirates’ push to further bolster its capabilities in the wake of regional conflicts.

The move aims to centralize efforts to build stakes in global defense manufacturers and expand domestic production, the people said, asking not to be identified as the matter is private. The talks have involved top officials and executives in Abu Dhabi, including Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohammed Al Nahyan and Mubadala Investment Co. Chief Executive Officer Khaldoon Al Mubarak, some of the people said.