Abu Dhabi, June 6, 2026 – His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, attended the graduation ceremony of the 13th cohort of the National Defence College in Abu Dhabi on Saturday, marking a milestone in the UAE’s investment in strategic leadership development.
During the ceremony, Sheikh Hamdan underscored the college’s role in preparing national leaders equipped with strategic thinking and future foresight. He attributed this vision to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, whose focus on cultivating highly skilled national talent aims to safeguard the nation’s achievements and bolster security. Sheikh Hamdan also highlighted the approach of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, emphasizing investment in people and empowering national talent for future leadership roles.
Building a Resilient Government
Sheikh Hamdan noted that the National Defence College plays a critical part in equipping leaders with the knowledge, expertise and strategic vision required to support national security. The institution enhances government readiness to anticipate developments and tackle strategic challenges, aligning with the leadership’s goal of a resilient and future-ready system.
“Investing in qualified national leaders, both academically and practically, is an investment in the nation’s future,” Sheikh Hamdan said. He added that this commitment reflects a culture of excellence, innovation and foresight, ensuring the UAE’s continued development and its position as a global model of competitiveness. The crown prince congratulated graduates on their achievements, praising their dedication and the skills they acquired, which will enable them to support national development and security.
International Participation and Expertise
The 13th cohort included graduates from the UAE as well as several allied and friendly nations, underscoring the college’s role in fostering strategic and security expertise across borders. Major General Saeed Salmeen Al Alawi, Commandant of the National Defence College, said in his speech that the institution prepares future leaders to anticipate change and address strategic challenges. Its programs, he explained, enhance strategic thinking and support comprehensive national security.
The ceremony was attended by senior military officials, including His Excellency Lieutenant General Issa Saif bin Ablan Al Mazrouei, Chief of Staff of the UAE Armed Forces, and His Excellency Lt. General Staff Ibrahim Nasser Al Alawi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Defence. After the formal proceedings, Sheikh Hamdan honored top achievers, congratulated all graduates and posed for commemorative photographs with the cohort and faculty.
A Model for National Talent Development
The graduation highlights the UAE’s sustained commitment to building a pipeline of strategic leaders capable of navigating complex global security landscapes. By integrating academic rigor with practical military training, the National Defence College serves as a cornerstone of the nation’s defense and governance infrastructure. The inclusion of international participants also strengthens bilateral ties and promotes knowledge exchange in strategic fields.
As the UAE continues to invest in human capital, institutions like the National Defence College will remain central to preparing leaders who can protect national gains, drive comprehensive development and uphold the country’s reputation as a forward-looking, secure and innovative nation. For prospective candidates, the college offers a pathway to contribute directly to the UAE’s long-term security and prosperity.