The meeting was on the sidelines of the 2025 International Defense Exhibition (IDEX), held over several days in the UAE.

Numerous specialists in the defence industry from various countries around the world participated in the event, read a statement by the Egyptian military spokesman.

During their meeting, the Egyptian Air Force Commander congratulated his Emirati counterpart on assuming the position, wished him success and prosperity, and hoped for further progress and achievements for the UAE Air Force and Air Defense.

According to the statement, the discussion also covered several topics of mutual interest aimed at strengthening the cooperation between the two sides.

Additionally, Lieutenant-General Abdel-Gawad conducted several bilateral meetings with the heads of delegations and representatives of major global companies operating in the aviation and space industries.

These meetings were part of the efforts to enhance cooperation with the Air Force in all fields and to prepare, organize, and promote the International Egyptian Air Show, the second edition of which is scheduled to be held in Alamein next year.

IDEX is a premier defence exhibition that serves as a global platform for showcasing cutting-edge defence technologies and fostering collaboration among international defence entities.

Egypt and the UAE share strong and longstanding defence relations, which are marked by ongoing collaboration and high-level engagements.

According to Emirati news agency WAM, the UAE National Pavilion participated in the first Egypt International Airshow in Alamein last September. The pavilion, with a dedicated exhibition space, showcased the UAE’s defence capabilities and technological innovations.

In October, UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed visited Egypt to attend the graduation ceremony of the class of 2024 at the Egyptian Military Academy alongside President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi.