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GCC Defense Market

Published Sep 15, 2025
Length 268 Pages
SKU # BLWC20706853

Description

GCC Defense Market, By Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force); By Type (Personnel Training & Protection, Communication Systems, Vehicles, Weapons & Ammunition); By Technology (Missile Defense Systems, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Cybersecurity & Electronic Warfare, Surveillance & Reconnaissance Systems); By Country (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman), Trend Analysis, Competitive Landscape & Forecast, 2019–2031GCC Defense Market Size Booming to Surpass Value of USD 63 Billion by 2031

GCC Defense Market is flourishing primarily due to geopolitical instability, rising defense budgets, military modernization, regional collaborations, advanced technologies, cybersecurity focus, and strategic procurements.

BlueWeave Consulting, a leading strategic consulting and market research firm, in its recent study, estimated GCC Defense Market size by value at USD 38.80 billion in 2024. During the forecast period between 2025 and 2031, BlueWeave expects GCC Defense Market size to boom at a significant CAGR of 7.22%, reaching a value of USD 63.20 billion by 2031. The growth of GCC Defense Market is propelled by rising geopolitical tensions, prompting increased military spending across member states. Nations like Saudi Arabia and the UAE are investing heavily in advanced technologies such as missile defense systems, UAVs, and cyber warfare capabilities. Modernization of armed forces, strategic partnerships with global defense contractors, and a growing emphasis on regional security cooperation further fuel the expansion of GCC Defense Market. Additionally, efforts to develop indigenous defense industries and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers are accelerating the market’s long-term growth.

Opportunity – Development of Local Defense Manufacturing Ecosystems

GCC Defense Market is witnessing strong growth through the development of local manufacturing ecosystems. Major GCC countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE are investing in indigenous capabilities to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and boost economic diversification. Initiatives such as SAMI and EDGE Group aim to localize production, enhance technological expertise, and create skilled jobs. This strategic shift strengthens national security, fosters innovation, and positions the region as a competitive player in the global defense industry.

Weapons & Ammunition Segment Holds Largest Market Share

The weapons & ammunition segment accounts for the largest market share of GCC Defense Market, due to a high demand for advanced missile systems, artillery, and precision-guided munitions amid rising regional threats and geopolitical tensions. GCC nations prioritize strategic deterrence and combat readiness, driving substantial investment in firepower capabilities. The segment’s growth is further fueled by modernization programs and partnerships with global defense contractors to enhance military effectiveness.

Impact of Escalating Geopolitical Tensions on GCC Defense Market

Escalating geopolitical tensions have significantly intensified defense priorities across GCC nations, driving a surge in military spending and strategic modernization. Regional conflicts and security threats have prompted investments in missile defense systems, UAVs, and cybersecurity infrastructure. Countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE are enhancing domestic production capabilities and forging global partnerships to strengthen deterrence and resilience. This evolving landscape positions the GCC as a critical defense hub, with sustained demand for advanced technologies and a shift toward self-reliant military ecosystems. Hence, intensifying geopolitical tensions across the Middle East region are expected to boost the growth of GCC Defense Market.

Competitive Landscape

GCC Defense Market is highly fragmented, with numerous players serving the market. Major companies dominating the market are Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, Airbus, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Thales Group, Leonardo S.p.A., Elbit Systems, Rheinmetall AG, EDGE Group (UAE), and SAMI – Saudi Arabian Military Industries. The key marketing strategies adopted by the players are facility expansion, product diversification, alliances, collaborations, partnerships, and acquisitions to expand their customer reach and gain a competitive edge over their competitors in GCC Defense Market.

The report's in-depth analysis provides information about growth potential, upcoming trends, and GCC Defense Market statistics. It also highlights the factors driving forecasts of total market size. The report promises to provide recent technology trends in GCC Defense Market, along with industry insights to help decision-makers make sound strategic decisions. Furthermore, the report also analyzes the growth drivers, challenges, and competitive dynamics of the market.

Table of Contents

268 Pages
1. Research Framework
1.1. Research Objective
1.2. Vehicle Type Overview
1.3. Market Segmentation
2. Executive Summary
3. GCC Defense Market Insights
3.1. Industry Value Chain Analysis
3.2. DROC Analysis
3.2.1. Growth Drivers
3.2.1.1. Rising Geopolitical Tensions in the Region
3.2.1.2. Increased Defense Budgets Across GCC Nations
3.2.1.3. Focus on Modernisation and Advanced Technologies (e.g., UAVs, Cyber Warfare)
3.2.2. Restraints
3.2.2.1. Heavy Reliance on Foreign Defense Contractors
3.2.2.2. Fragmented Procurement Strategies Among Member States
3.2.2.3. Limited Indigenous Manufacturing Capabilities
3.2.3. Opportunities
3.2.3.1. Development of Local Defense Manufacturing Ecosystems
3.2.3.2. Expansion of Joint Military Exercises and Regional Collaboration
3.2.4. Challenges
3.2.4.1. Interoperability Issues Across National Forces
3.2.4.2. Supply Chain Complexity and Maintenance Inefficiencies
3.3. Technological Advancements/Recent Developments
3.4. Regulatory Framework
3.5. Porter’s Five Forces Analysis
3.5.1. Bargaining Power of Suppliers
3.5.2. Bargaining Power of Buyers
3.5.3. Threat of New Entrants
3.5.4. Threat of Substitutes
3.5.5. Intensity of Rivalry
4. GCC Defense Market: Marketing Strategies
5. GCC Defense Market: Pricing Analysis
6. GCC Defense Market Overview
6.1. Market Size & Forecast, 2019–2031
6.1.1. By Value (USD Billion)
6.2. Market Share & Forecast
6.2.1. By Armed Forces
6.2.1.1. Army
6.2.1.2. Navy
6.2.1.3. Air Force
6.2.2. By Type
6.2.2.1. Personnel Training & Protection
6.2.2.2. Communication Systems
6.2.2.3. Vehicles
6.2.2.4. Weapons & Ammunition
6.2.3. By Technology
6.2.3.1. Missile Defense Systems
6.2.3.2. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)
6.2.3.3. Cybersecurity & Electronic Warfare
6.2.3.4. Surveillance & Reconnaissance Systems
6.2.4. By Country
6.2.4.1. UAE
6.2.4.2. Saudi Arabia
6.2.4.3. Qatar
6.2.4.4. Kuwait
6.2.4.5. Bahrain
6.2.4.6. Oman
7. Saudi Arabia Defense Market
7.1. Market Size & Forecast, 2019–2031
7.1.1. By Value (USD Billion)
7.2. Market Share & Forecast
7.2.1. By Armed Forces
7.2.2. By Type
7.2.3. By Technology
7.2.4. By Country
8. UAE Defense Market
8.1. Market Size & Forecast, 2019–2031
8.1.1. By Value (USD Billion)
8.2. Market Share & Forecast
8.2.1. By Armed Forces
8.2.2. By Type
8.2.3. By Technology
8.2.4. By Country
9. Qatar Defense Market
9.1. Market Size & Forecast, 2019–2031
9.1.1. By Value (USD Billion)
9.2. Market Share & Forecast
9.2.1. By Armed Forces
9.2.2. By Type
9.2.3. By Technology
9.2.4. By Country
10. Kuwait Defense Market
10.1. Market Size & Forecast, 2019–2031
10.1.1. By Value (USD Billion)
10.2. Market Share & Forecast
10.2.1. By Armed Forces
10.2.2. By Type
10.2.3. By Technology
10.2.4. By Country
11. Oman Defense Market
11.1. Market Size & Forecast, 2019–2031
11.1.1. By Value (USD Billion)
11.2. Market Share & Forecast
11.2.1. By Armed Forces
11.2.2. By Type
11.2.3. By Technology
11.2.4. By Country
12. Bahrain Defense Market
12.1. Market Size & Forecast, 2019–2031
12.1.1. By Value (USD Billion)
12.2. Market Share & Forecast
12.2.1. By Armed Forces
12.2.2. By Type
12.2.3. By Technology
12.2.4. By Country
13. Competitive Landscape
13.1. List of Key Players and Their Offerings
13.2. GCC Defense Company Market Share Analysis, 2024
13.3. Competitive Benchmarking, By Operating Parameters
13.4. Key Strategic Developments (Mergers, Acquisitions, Partnerships)
14. Impact of Escalating Geopolitical Tensions on GCC Defense Market
15. Company Profiles (Company Overview, Financial Matrix, Competitive Landscape, Key Personnel, Key Competitors, Contact Address, Strategic Outlook, SWOT Analysis)
15.1. Lockheed Martin
15.2. BAE Systems
15.3. Airbus
15.4. Boeing
15.5. Northrop Grumman
15.6. Thales Group
15.7. Leonardo S.p.A.
15.8. Elbit Systems
15.9. Rheinmetall AG
15.10. EDGE Group (UAE)
15.11. SAMI – Saudi Arabian Military Industries
15.12. Other Prominent Players
16. Key Strategic Recommendations
17. Research Methodology
17.1.Qualitative Research
17.1.1.Primary & Secondary Research
17.2.Quantitative Research
17.3.Market Breakdown & Data Triangulation
17.3.1.Secondary Research
17.3.2.Primary Research
17.4.Breakdown of Primary Research Respondents, By Country
17.5.Assumptions & Limitations
*Financial information of non-listed companies can be provided as per availability.
**The segmentation and the companies are subject to modifications based on in-depth secondary research for the final deliverable
List of Figures
Figure 1 GCC Defense Segmentation
Figure 2 GCC Defense Market Value Chain Analysis
Figure 3 Company Market Share Analysis, 2024
Figure 4 GCC Defense Market Size, By Value (USD Billion), 2019–2031
Figure 5 GCC Defense Market Share, By Armed Forces, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 6 GCC Defense Market Share, By Type, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 7 GCC Defense Market Share, By Technology, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 8 GCC Defense Market Share, By Country, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 9 GCC Defense Market Share, By Country, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 10 Saudi Arabia Defense Market Size, By Value (USD Billion), 2019–2031
Figure 11 Saudi Arabia Defense Market Share, By Armed Forces, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 12 Saudi Arabia Defense Market Share, By Type, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 13 Saudi Arabia Defense Market Share, By Technology, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 14 Saudi Arabia Defense Market Share, By Country, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 15 UAE Defense Market Size, By Value (USD Billion), 2019–2031
Figure 16 UAE Defense Market Share, By Armed Forces, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 17 UAE Defense Market Share, By Type, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 18 UAE Defense Market Share, By Technology, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 19 UAE Defense Market Share, By Country, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 20 Qatar Defense Market Size, By Value (USD Billion), 2019–2031
Figure 21 Qatar Defense Market Share, By Armed Forces, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 22 Qatar Defense Market Share, By Type, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 23 Qatar Defense Market Share, By Technology, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 24 Qatar Defense Market Share, By Country, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 25 Kuwait Defense Market Size, By Value (USD Billion), 2019–2031
Figure 26 Kuwait Defense Market Share, By Armed Forces, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 27 Kuwait Defense Market Share, By Type, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 28 Kuwait Defense Market Share, By Technology, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 29 Kuwait Defense Market Share, By Country, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 30 Oman Defense Market Size, By Value (USD Billion), 2019–2031
Figure 31 Oman Defense Market Share, By Armed Forces, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 32 Oman Defense Market Share, By Type, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 33 Oman Defense Market Share, By Technology, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 34 Oman Defense Market Share, By Country, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 35 Bahrain Defense Market Size, By Value (USD Billion), 2019–2031
Figure 36 Bahrain Defense Market Share, By Armed Forces, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 37 Bahrain Defense Market Share, By Type, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 38 Bahrain Defense Market Share, By Technology, By Value, 2019–2031
Figure 39 Bahrain Defense Market Share, By Country, By Value, 2019–2031
List of Tables
Table 1 GCC Defense Market Size, By Value (USD Billion), 2019–2031
Table 2 GCC Defense Market Size, By Armed Forces, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 3 GCC Defense Market Size, By Type, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 4 GCC Defense Market Size, By Technology, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 5 GCC Defense Market Size, By Country, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 6 GCC Defense Market Size, By Country, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 7 Saudi Arabia Defense Market Size, By Value (USD Billion), 2019–2031
Table 8 Saudi Arabia Defense Market Size, By Armed Forces, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 9 Saudi Arabia Defense Market Size, By Type, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 10 Saudi Arabia Defense Market Size, By Technology, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 11 Saudi Arabia Defense Market Size, By Country, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 12 UAE Defense Market Size, By Value (USD Billion), 2019–2031
Table 13 UAE Defense Market Size, By Armed Forces, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 14 UAE Defense Market Size, By Type, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 15 UAE Defense Market Size, By Technology, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 16 UAE Defense Market Size, By Country, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 17 Qatar Defense Market Size, By Value (USD Billion), 2019–2031
Table 18 Qatar Defense Market Size, By Armed Forces, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 19 Qatar Defense Market Size, By Type, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 20 Qatar Defense Market Size, By Technology, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 21 Qatar Defense Market Size, By Country, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 22 Kuwait Defense Market Size, By Value (USD Billion), 2019–2031
Table 23 Kuwait Defense Market Size, By Armed Forces, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 24 Kuwait Defense Market Size, By Type, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 25 Kuwait Defense Market Size, By Technology, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 26 Kuwait Defense Market Size, By Country, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 27 Oman Defense Market Size, By Value (USD Billion), 2019–2031
Table 28 Oman Defense Market Size, By Armed Forces, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 29 Oman Defense Market Size, By Type, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 30 Oman Defense Market Size, By Technology, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 31 Oman Defense Market Size, By Country, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 32 Bahrain Defense Market Size, By Value (USD Billion), 2019–2031
Table 33 Bahrain Defense Market Size, By Armed Forces, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 34 Bahrain Defense Market Size, By Type, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 35 Bahrain Defense Market Size, By Technology, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 36 Bahrain Defense Market Size, By Country, By Value, 2019–2031
Table 37 Lockheed Martin Company Overview
Table 38 Lockheed Martin Financial Overview
Table 39 BAE Systems Company Overview
Table 40 BAE Systems Financial Overview
Table 41 Airbus Company Overview
Table 42 Airbus Financial Overview
Table 43 Boeing Company Overview
Table 44 Boeing Financial Overview
Table 45 Northrop Grumman Company Overview
Table 46 Northrop Grumman Financial Overview
Table 47 Thales Group Company Overview
Table 48 Thales Group Financial Overview
Table 49 Leonardo S.p.A. Company Overview
Table 50 Leonardo S.p.A. Financial Overview
Table 51 Elbit Systems Company Overview
Table 52 Elbit Systems Financial Overview
Table 53 Rheinmetall AG Company Overview
Table 54 Rheinmetall AG Financial Overview
Table 55 EDGE Group (UAE) Company Overview
Table 56 EDGE Group (UAE) Financial Overview
Table 57 SAMI – Saudi Arabian Military Industries Company Overview
Table 58 SAMI – Saudi Arabian Military Industries Financial Overview
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