Zelensky begins Gulf tour to share Ukraine’s drone defense expertise

Volodymyr Zelensky began a tour of the Gulf on March 26, 2026, visiting Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. The trip focuses on sharing Ukraine’s unique experience in countering offensive drones, particularly the Iranian-made Shahed-136, as regional tensions rise.

Gulf states have faced repeated drone and ballistic missile attacks. While the incoming drones are relatively inexpensive, intercepting them with traditional air defense systems such as the Patriot missile can cost millions per engagement. Zelensky presented a cost-effective alternative developed by Ukraine using intercept drones like the Rasikh and Sting, capable of producing 1,000 units per day. Each intercept costs under $10,000, preserving strategic missile stockpiles.

In Saudi Arabia, Zelensky signed a security cooperation deal focused on “sky protection,” followed by meetings in Abu Dhabi with Mohammed bin Zayed on joint defense efforts. In Doha, agreements were reached on drone interception and investment in defense technology. Reports indicate that 228 Ukrainian military experts have been deployed to the region to assess systems and train local forces in countering mass drone attacks.

Ukraine aims to exchange its technology and expertise for financial, technological, and air defense support, including PAC-3 missiles needed for its fight against Russia. Analysts say the tour underscores Ukraine’s emergence as a sought-after “drone power” internationally and serves as a diplomatic response to Iranian military support for Moscow, strengthening Zelensky’s position as a reliable partner for innovative, cost-effective security solutions in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.