They do not even own the Rafale yet, there is one in France for integration and testing but no formally deliveries have begun.
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Presentation of the first United Arab Emirates Rafale - Group News
Wednesday January 29, 2025, took place the presentation of the first United Arab Emirates Rafale. © Dassault Aviation - A. Bonfortwww.dassault-aviation.com
This first F4 Rafale for the UAE, produced in line with the contract schedule, will remain at Dassault Aviation’s Flight Test Center to perform flight tests in view of the first deliveries to the UAE Air Force & Air Defence which are scheduled at the end of 2026.
UAE accepts first Rafale combat aircraft
The first of 80 Dassault Rafale combat aircraft have been formally handed over to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), it was announced on 29 January.