Marrakesh Airshow 2026: UAE and Saudi Arabia Showcase Defence Tech

Morocco targets global aerospace supply chain role, as aerospace exports surge 21.5%

The 8th edition of the Marrakesh International Airshow (MAS 2026) takes off from 7–10 October 2026 at the Royal Moroccan Air Force Base in Marrakech. Held every two years, the 2026 show brings together 200+ exhibitors, over 75 official civil and military delegations, and an anticipated 15,000 professional visitors across 12,500 square meters. MAS 2026 serves as a regional aerospace representation to a global audience.

Highlighting the show’s significance, Steve Sheehy, VP at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, stated: “We want Moroccan companies to play a greater role in our global supply chain.”

MENA Industry Highlights

Attendees can expect an expansive showcase of the region’s industry across static exhibitions, workshops, and flight lines:

  • Morocco: This year, Morocco’s Aerospace exports grew 21.5% to MAD 22.969 bn ($2.31 bn) through August 2026. As hosts, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, AMDIE, Royal Air Maroc, and the Royal Moroccan Air Force represent the domestic sector. 


Morocco will feature Lockheed Martin’s ‘Industry Day’ for F-16 and C-130J components and L3Harris’s RMAF C-130 programme. It will also highlight Boeing’s ACME and build on the 2024 Embraer framework.

  • United Arab Emirates: Organised by ADNEC Group with the Tawazun Council and the UAE Ministry of Defence, the pavilion features EDGE Group, VentureOne, and Resource Industries, showcasing autonomous systems and cyber defence and hosting tech localisation workshops.
  • Saudi Arabia: The Royal Saudi Air Force takes to the skies with the Saudi Hawks aerobatic team, performing precision aerial displays daily in their signature green-and-white BAe Hawks jet trainers.

MAS 2026 is expected to deliver significant deal announcements in defence offsets, tactical aircraft acquisitions, and joint R&D, accelerating MENA’s evolution from a technology consumer to a sovereign aerospace manufacturing hub.

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