Bahrain and UAE step up joint defense amid rising regional threats

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain attended the joint Emirati-Bahraini military exercise Rabdan–Shuwaiman 2025 on Saturday, reaffirming the deep strategic and fraternal ties between the two Gulf states.

Held in Bahrain, the exercise underscores the growing security concerns shared by Abu Dhabi and Manama, particularly amid regional instability, evolving threats and the need for rapid-response military cooperation. 

Both countries continue to prioritise joint defense capabilities as part of their broader strategy to protect national interests and maintain regional stability.

Rabdan–Shuwaiman 2025 included advanced training scenarios designed to enhance the readiness of participating units, improve operational planning and execution, and strengthen coordination between support and airborne forces. The drills simulated a variety of conditions to test adaptability in complex and fast-moving security environments.

During their visit, Sheikh Mohamed and King Hamad toured the training sites, greeting senior officers from both armed forces and receiving an extensive briefing on the objectives and outcomes of the exercise. 

The leaders highlighted the importance of sustained joint training to deter threats and reinforce the defense posture of both nations.

In recognition of their distinguished service, King Hamad awarded medals of excellence to several UAE officers participating in the exercise.

The Rabdan–Shuwaiman series remains a key component of the UAE–Bahrain defense partnership, reflecting their shared commitment to security cooperation and collective readiness in an increasingly challenging regional climate.