King Hamad and Sheikh Hamdan Strengthen Gulf Ties at ‘Bahrain Shield’ Military Exercise
Dubai: His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain welcomed His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, in Manama. This meeting marked the beginning of Sheikh Hamdan’s visit to Bahrain to participate in the ‘Bahrain Shield’ joint military exercise.
The meeting was attended by prominent figures including His Highness Lieutenant General Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, National Security Adviser and Royal Guard Commander, and His Highness Brigadier Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Commander of the Royal Guard Special Operations.
Joint Military Exercise Enhances Gulf Cooperation
The ‘Bahrain Shield’ exercise, hosted by the Bahrain Defence Force, involved participation from the Mohamed bin Zayed Squadron, military units from various GCC countries, a contingent from the Peninsula Shield Force, and forces from Saudi Arabia. This exercise is part of ongoing efforts to bolster military cooperation and enhance coordination among the armed forces of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations.
The exercise included operational scenarios and field drills aimed at improving combat readiness, facilitating the exchange of expertise, and strengthening command-and-control systems. These initiatives are vital for equipping the participating forces to tackle a range of security and defense challenges.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
During the meeting, King Hamad expressed pride in the enduring fraternal ties and historical partnership between Bahrain and the UAE. He emphasized the importance of advancing bilateral relations across various sectors to serve mutual interests and support the ambitious development goals of both nations.
King Hamad and Sheikh Hamdan were briefed on the various phases and integrated drills of the exercise, which showcased the efficiency and professionalism of the participating forces. This reflected the robust defense cooperation among GCC countries.
Commitment to Collective Security
King Hamad remarked on the Gulf Cooperation Council’s historical success in fostering joint action among its member states. He noted that the ‘Bahrain Shield’ exercise serves as a practical extension of the Council’s efforts to enhance collective security and advance defense integration through joint deterrence programs.
He expressed particular pride in the participation of the UAE Armed Forces’ King Hamad Brigade, acknowledging the UAE’s consistent support for its Gulf neighbors. King Hamad also recognized the contributions of Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, and Kuwait, commending the high levels of performance and professionalism demonstrated by all participating forces.
Regional Developments and Future Cooperation
During the discussions, Sheikh Hamdan conveyed greetings from His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. They wished King Hamad continued good health and prosperity for Bahrain and its people.
Sheikh Hamdan praised the exercise’s organization and the advanced capabilities displayed by the participating forces. He noted that their performance reflected full operational readiness and a strong capacity to address various challenges efficiently.
The meeting also addressed current regional developments, emphasizing the need for strengthened cooperation and reinforced Gulf unity. Both leaders highlighted the importance of maintaining coordination and consultation to safeguard the achievements of GCC nations and ensure security and stability.
Conclusion of the Visit
At the conclusion of the visit, Sheikh Hamdan underscored the strong fraternal and strategic relations between the UAE and Bahrain. He affirmed that these ties are founded on a shared vision for enhancing regional security and stability while advancing joint Gulf action.
Sheikh Hamdan arrived in Manama earlier in the day, where he was welcomed at Bahrain International Airport by Sheikh Nasser and Sheikh Khalid. He was accompanied during the exercise by His Excellency Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, His Excellency Lieutenant General Issa Saif bin Ablan Al Mazrouei, Chief of Staff of the UAE Armed Forces, and several senior officers from the Ministry of Defence.
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Published on 2026-07-31 13:50:00 • By the Editorial Desk
