Mubadala Investment Company, Abu Dhabi’s sovereign investor, and Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer have signed a Strategic Framework Agreement aimed at fostering long-term cooperation in aerospace manufacturing, maintenance, workforce development, and research. The partnership was announced during the Farnborough International Airshow 2026.
The agreement, signed by Amer Siddiqui, Executive Director at Mubadala’s UAE Investments Platform, and Dimas Douglas Tomelin, Embraer’s Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer, seeks to leverage the UAE’s capabilities in aerostructures, advanced materials, aircraft maintenance, and aviation services. The companies highlighted a trend among aircraft manufacturers towards collaborating with fewer, larger suppliers capable of handling multiple phases of the aerospace value chain.
Under the terms of the agreement, Mubadala and Embraer will develop joint training programs in the UAE focused on engineering and aerospace skills. These initiatives are expected to provide Emirati engineers and aerospace professionals with practical training, knowledge transfer, and work placements at Embraer’s facilities in Brazil. The hands-on experience aims to enhance local expertise by offering exposure to the company’s manufacturing and engineering operations.
The deal also paves the way for Abu Dhabi-based Sanad, Mubadala’s aerospace maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider, to potentially expand its services to Embraer aircraft. Sanad currently offers MRO support to over 40 airlines globally, and this collaboration could enable the company to maintain Embraer jets across the Gulf Cooperation Council as well as the broader South Asia, Middle East, and North Africa regions. However, the agreement does not include specifics on any maintenance contracts, including their scope, value, or timelines.
In addition to workforce and maintenance initiatives, the partnership includes plans for joint research on advanced aerospace technologies. Areas of focus may include composite materials, additive manufacturing techniques, and high-temperature alloys. Additive manufacturing, which builds parts layer by layer, offers advantages such as the ability to create complex components while reducing material waste.
Mubadala and Embraer are also considering establishing a joint innovation hub to support prototype development and facilitate the transition of emerging aerospace technologies to industrial-scale production. This research collaboration is expected to contribute to the development of next-generation aircraft structures and manufacturing processes.
Overall, the agreement reflects a strategic effort by both parties to strengthen their aerospace capabilities, enhance local talent, and drive innovation within the sector.