Calidus Holding Group is participating in the fourth edition of the Make it in the Emirates Forum and Exhibition, taking place from 19 to 22 May at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). As one of the UAE’s premier industrial platforms, the event brings together leading experts, manufacturers, investors, and innovators from across the defence and broader industrial sectors.
This year, Calidus is showcasing a comprehensive portfolio of advanced defence technologies and systems. Among the highlights are the LRV002 vehicle, the B-250 aircraft prototype, the MATV vehicle, and multiple configurations of the Al Hedaa missile system. Also on display are a scale model of the CLS military vehicle production line, an aircraft cockpit simulator, and the company’s sub-component manufacturing solutions—underscoring its vertically integrated approach to production and systems engineering.
These offerings reflect Calidus’ unwavering commitment to delivering cutting-edge, integrated solutions that contribute to the UAE’s ambition of building sustainable and sovereign industrial and defence capabilities. The company’s presence at the forum reinforces its role as a national champion of homegrown manufacturing excellence and technological innovation.
Looking to the future, Calidus has strategic plans to unveil a new generation of advanced defence systems—each designed, developed, manufactured, and assembled entirely in-house using 100% Emirati expertise. These next-generation solutions will integrate emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, as part of the company’s commitment to anticipating and shaping the future of modern warfare.
Commenting on the company’s participation, H.E. Dr Khalifa Murad Al Baloushi, Managing Director and CEO of Calidus Holding Group, emphasised the strategic significance of “Make it in the Emirates” as a platform that promotes national industries and supports the growth of the UAE’s defence sector.
“This forum plays a pivotal role in encouraging local manufacturing, supporting national talent, and strengthening the UAE’s industrial identity,” he said. “Our participation reaffirms Calidus’ alignment with this national initiative, allowing us to present a wide range of distinguished defence products, all designed and built in our facilities by Emirati hands.”
Dr Al Baloushi explained that the forum serves multiple strategic purposes for the company. In addition to highlighting Calidus’ robust manufacturing capabilities, it enables the Group to explore new avenues for enhancing its local supply chain, fostering bilateral partnerships, and advancing the UAE’s defence industrial base in line with the country’s goals of self-sufficiency, economic diversification, and industrial resilience.
He further noted that the forum offers a unique opportunity to introduce Calidus’ technologies to a broad cross-section of regional and international stakeholders. “By showcasing our capabilities on this global stage, we continue to reinforce our credibility as a pioneering Emirati defence technology enterprise and help elevate the international visibility of UAE-manufactured systems.”
Addressing the broader vision, Dr Al Baloushi highlighted the importance of cultivating high-calibre Emirati leadership within the defence manufacturing sector and ensuring the sustainability of national capabilities in an increasingly complex strategic environment. He pointed to Calidus’ success in technology transfer through long-term partnerships with leading global firms, and its strategic acquisitions aimed at localising advanced manufacturing technologies.
“Our ultimate objective is to contribute meaningfully to establishing the UAE as a global hub for defence manufacturing. This includes pursuing targeted industrial investments, forming international partnerships, and enhancing the global competitiveness of our platforms and products,” he said.
As the defence sector undergoes rapid technological transformation, Calidus remains focused on adaptability, innovation, and long-term impact. Dr Al Baloushi reaffirmed that the company is committed to continuously investing in frontier technologies such as AI, robotics, and advanced materials, not only to meet future challenges but to proactively shape them.
“As we look ahead, Calidus will continue to execute its strategic roadmap, empower national talent, and play a central role in supporting the UAE’s defence industrial ambitions. Through sustained innovation and operational excellence, we are building a future that is as ambitious as it is achievable.”