Emirati Defense Ministry Mourns Passing of First Armed Forces Chief Gen. Awad Al Khalidi
Sara KhaledUAE Mourns Death of General Awad Al-Khalidi, First Chief of Staff of UAE Armed Forces
The UAE Ministry of Defense has expressed condolences following the death of General Awad Mohammed Al-Khalidi, a Jordanian military leader who served as the first Chief of Staff of the UAE Armed Forces. Al-Khalidi's passing marks the end of an era for a figure who played a pivotal role in establishing the military foundations of the young UAE federation in its early years.
A Bridge Between Two Nations
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the UAE Ministry of Defense extended heartfelt condolences to King Abdullah II of Jordan, the Jordanian Armed Forces, and the Jordanian people. The ministry described Al-Khalidi as "one of Jordan's distinguished figures in military, diplomatic, and political fields," highlighting his multifaceted contributions beyond his military service.
The official statement read: "With hearts believing in God's will and destiny, the Ministry of Defense extends sincere condolences and sympathy to His Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein, King of the sisterly Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the Jordanian Armed Forces, and the brotherly Jordanian people on the death of General Awad Mohammed Al-Khalidi."
Historical Significance in UAE's Military Development
Al-Khalidi's role as the UAE's first Chief of Staff places him at a crucial juncture in the nation's history. When the UAE was formed in 1971, the newly federated state required experienced military leadership to build its defense capabilities from the ground up. The appointment of a seasoned Jordanian officer reflected the close ties between the two Arab nations and Jordan's reputation for military professionalism.
Regional Military Cooperation Legacy
His appointment exemplifies a broader pattern of military cooperation among Gulf states during their formative years. Similar to how other GCC nations sought expertise from established military powers in the region, the UAE's decision to bring in experienced leadership from Jordan demonstrated pragmatic nation-building in the post-independence era.
This cross-border military collaboration helped establish institutional frameworks that continue to influence UAE-Jordan relations today, particularly in defense cooperation and strategic partnerships.
Enduring UAE-Jordan Strategic Partnership
The formal condolences from the UAE government underscore the lasting bonds between the two nations that Al-Khalidi helped forge. His death serves as a reminder of the personal relationships that have underpinned decades of diplomatic and military cooperation between Abu Dhabi and Amman.
Today, both countries maintain strong defense ties, participate in joint military exercises, and coordinate on regional security issues—foundations that leaders like Al-Khalidi helped establish during the UAE's early years of statehood.
