Dubai: Calidus Holding Group, a prominent defence and manufacturing firm, and Airbus, Europe’s largest aeronautics and space company, have announced an agreement to explore the creation of a localised Aircraft Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) centre in the UAE for the A400M aircraft.
According to Emirates News Agency, the agreement was signed by Dr. Khalifa Murad Alblooshi, Managing Director and CEO of Calidus Holding Group, and Gerd Weber, Head of the A400M programme, during the Dubai Airshow scheduled from 17-21 November 2025.
The proposed MRO centre aims to establish maintenance infrastructure in the UAE, facilitating technology transfer, training, and engineering support to develop long-term capability. The project is expected to create opportunities for Emirati engineers and technicians, supporting Emiratisation and workforce development. It will also contribute to supply chain localisation by qualifying UAE-based suppliers for components and tooling.
Dr. Alblooshi remarked that the agreement underscores a commitment to building local capability and advancing the UAE’s aerospace sector in alignment with national objectives. The focus on localising MRO facilities and investing in Emirati talent is intended to establish a resilient ecosystem that supports national goals and positions Calidus as a leader in aircraft maintenance and innovation in the region.
Gabriel Semelas, President of Airbus Africa and Middle East, noted that the agreement with Calidus is a significant step towards localising the A400M support and services ecosystem in the Middle East. The partnership outlines pathways for technology transfer and local personnel upskilling, viewing Calidus as a strategic partner whose future capabilities will enhance regional supply chain efficiency and bolster the UAE’s role in the global aerospace industry.
This collaboration is set to drive industrial self-sufficiency and strengthen the companies’ leadership in aircraft maintenance and innovation across the region. It also bolsters the UAE’s status as a global hub for aerospace excellence and advanced aviation services.