His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, underscored the UAE’s commitment to advanced defense capabilities yesterday during the graduation ceremony for the second cohort of officer cadets from Zayed Military University (ZMU) in Abu Dhabi. The December 5, 2025, event marked a significant milestone, celebrating a diverse group of graduates—including ZMU’s inaugural class of female officer cadets—who are now poised to join the nation’s security and armed forces, upholding the UAE’s mission of promoting global security and peace.
The ceremony, held at the university’s headquarters, provided a platform for affirming the leadership’s strategic vision for national security, which stresses the development of highly skilled human capital alongside technological enhancement of defense systems.
Future Readiness and Human Capital Development
In his address to the new officers, Sheikh Hamdan urged the graduates to demonstrate absolute discipline, applying their military expertise and leadership training to strengthen the foundations of the nation’s progress. He emphasized that the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, form the bedrock for developing the Armed Forces’ future readiness. This strategy focuses on providing cadets with advanced military sciences, tactical skills, and strategic thinking capabilities that meet leading international standards.
The graduates represent a critical investment in the UAE’s defense structure, drawing from across the security spectrum, including the armed forces, police, and various government services.
Historic Milestone: Welcoming the First Class of Women
A highlight of this year’s event was the graduation of ZMU’s first cohort of female cadets, signaling a pivotal moment for inclusivity within the nation’s defense sector.
Lieutenant General Mike Hindmarsh, Commandant of Zayed Military University, delivered a powerful speech acknowledging the significance of the moment. “This year is exceptional not only as the continuation of a proud tradition but because it marks another historic first—the graduation of the university’s first cohort of female cadets,” he stated. Lt. Gen. Hindmarsh confirmed the university’s resolve to chart a future where all capable Emirati citizens, regardless of gender, lead in the defense of the nation with equal distinction.
ZMU was intentionally created to set a new standard in security education, rigorously blending academic excellence with intensive military preparation to forge leaders ready for the challenges of the modern era. The cadets have mastered academic pursuits, developed critical and innovative thinking, and acquired essential operational warfighting and leadership skills.
Commitment to National Defense
The proceedings began according to approved military protocols, including the UAE national anthem and a precisely executed 14-step military advancement drill by the graduating classes, showcasing their high level of training and discipline.
Sheikh Hamdan presented awards to the top graduates and distinguished cadets. The ceremony continued with the traditional handover of the university flag from the graduating class to the incoming third cohort, who pledged to safeguard the standard. Following this, the new officers took the solemn oath of loyalty, committing their allegiance to the President of the UAE and vowing to protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the nation on land, sea, and air.
The event hosted a number of high-ranking military and security officials, including His Excellency Lieutenant General Issa Saif bin Ablan Al Mazrouei, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, and Lieutenant General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, underscoring the collective importance of the occasion for the entire national security infrastructure.
The graduation signifies the UAE’s unwavering focus on cultivating a highly educated and skilled military leadership equipped to advance the nation’s security interests and contribute meaningfully to regional and global stability.