The United Arab Emirates signed a record 14-billion Euro contract to purchase 80 French-made Rafale warplanes and committed billions of euros in other deals as President Emmanuel Macron kicked off a Gulf tour today (Friday).

In a statement, the French presidency said the agreement of biggest international order ever made for the Rafale jets was signed in Dubai by Dassault Aviation Director General Eric Trapier.

President Macron also held talks with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed on the first day of his visit to the UAE.

The UAE also agreed to buy 12 Caracal military transport helicopters.