Meet Hamad Al Marar who transformed EDGE into a global defence powerhouse

Abu Dhabi: When Hamad Al Marar graduated in 2005 with a degree in accounting, he could hardly have predicted that he would one day lead one of the region's most powerful defence group and one of the leading in the world.

Today, as the MD & CEO of EDGE Group, Al Marar now leads a global powerhouse in the defence sector, guiding its rise from a small, focused project to a massive international player in just a few short years. Eddge is UAE-based advanced technology and defence group.

Al Marar’s journey into the defence sector began almost by chance through the UAE’s Offset Programme Bureau, where he joined as an analyst.

In an interview with Gulf News, Al Marar reflecting on those early days. He recalled: “One of my first projects was with what is now called LAHAB, which produces everything from small to large calibre ammunition.” From there, his career trajectory took off as he quickly became involved in various aspects of the defence industry, expanding his role and expertise in the process.

Unmanned technologies

His early work on key projects included the development of sniper systems and unmanned technologies, including the UAE’s first air-to-ground missile programme in a joint venture with South Africa’s Denel. “It became one of the many important contributors to the growth of the UAE's  defence industry, by adding to the development of EDGE’s precision guided munitions capabilities,” Al Marar said, speaking of the program’s long-term success.

Al Marar also played a crucial role in consolidating and modernising the industry. Between 2013 and 2017, he led efforts to merge several key players across defence, cybersecurity, and homeland security, laying the groundwork for what would ultimately become EDGE Group in 2019.

“We wanted to bring it all under one roof, to consolidate and strengthen our presence. Today, EDGE stands as a testament to that ambition,” he added.

14,000+ employees

Since its launch in 2019, EDGE has grown exponentially, now employing over 14,000 people worldwide. Nearly half of its order book is made up of international exports — an impressive feat for a company less than five years old. “We are competing globally and placing the UAE on the map,” Al Marar said with pride.

Despite his non-technical background in accounting, Al Marar has proven that leadership in the defence sector isn’t defined solely by technical expertise. “My education was irrelevant to what I do today, but I was determined to succeed,” he explained. “I’m not the smartest, but I work hard, and I’ve always surrounded myself with people who are smarter than me.”

Work ethics

Over the past two decades, h has formed deep bonds within the industry. “Most of the officers I used to deal with 20 years ago are now brigadiers and generals,” he said. “We grew up together, and that helped me a lot.” It’s clear that these connections, along with his relentless work ethic, have played a major role in EDGE’s rise.

Al Marar believes that EDGE’s future lies in a targeted approach to innovation, focusing its resources on three main areas: autonomous systems, electronic warfare, and smart weapons. “We don’t have legacy systems, which gives us the freedom to innovate,” he said. “Our customer base is daring, experienced, and always pushing us forward.”

Future plans

A major part of this innovation comes from EDGE’s investment in artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous technologies. Al Marar envisions a future where EDGE’s land, sea, and air systemsoperate with greater intelligence and autonomy. “We’re looking at swarming capabilities, smart chipsets, and AI integration,” he explained. “This is the future.”

In a sector where technological advancements occur at breakneck speed, Al Marar is not just content with keeping pace. He wants EDGE to lead the way. “The UAE has the potential to become a global hub for cutting-edge defence technologies. It’s not just about following trends; it’s about shaping the future of defence,” he added.

Of course, the demands of leadership in such a high-stakes industry come with personal sacrifices. When asked about work-life balance, Al Marar was candid: “People say they prioritise family, but the truth is, I chose work. Work comes first. It’s demanding, and I’ve given it my all.” However, he remains deeply focused on the bigger picture. “We have thousands of families depending on our decisions. That’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly.”

Purpose-driven leadership

As Al Marar reflects on the trajectory of his career, one thing becomes clear: his success is not solely due to technical skills or a deep understanding of defence systems. Instead, it’s his purpose-driven leadership, resilience, and ability to trust the strengths of his team that have propelled EDGE Group to the heights it has reached today. “In a sector where global competition is fierce and innovation is constant, leadership is about more than expertise — it’s about vision and knowing how to rely on the strengths of those around you,” he said.

EDGE Group’s journey from a small defence initiative to a global leader is a testament to Al Marar’s vision and leadership, but it also highlights the growing importance of innovation in the UAE’s broader ambitions on the world stage.