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Global attention is turning to Abu Dhabi as the largest edition of the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX 2025) and the Naval Defence and Maritime Security Exhibition (NAVDEX 2025) is set to take place from February 17 to 21 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. The event, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, marks a major milestone in the global defence industry.

Organized by ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and the Tawazun Council, the exhibitions will bring together 1,565 companies from 65 countries, reflecting a 16% increase from the previous edition. The total exhibition space has expanded by 10% to 181,501 square meters, with 731 new companies participating—an 82% rise from the last event.

His Excellency Major General Staff Pilot Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee, emphasized that IDEX and NAVDEX have become a global platform for showcasing cutting-edge defence technologies. He attributed their success to the visionary leadership of the UAE, which has positioned itself as a hub for defence and security innovation.

This year’s event will see the participation of 41 national pavilions, with the UAE hosting the largest pavilion, which has grown by 4% compared to the previous edition. National companies account for 16% of total exhibitors, while international companies make up 84%. Seven new countries—Qatar, Ethiopia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, and Cyprus—are joining the exhibition for the first time.

The addition of a new exhibition hall, featuring 341 companies, and a dedicated CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosives) awareness platform with 38 participating companies from 13 countries highlights the event’s growing scope. Over 3,300 defence products and technologies will be showcased, with 156 start-ups making up 10% of the exhibitors.

His Excellency Major General Staff Mubarak Saeed bin Gafan Al Jabri, Deputy Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee, noted that IDEX and NAVDEX have significantly expanded since their inception, strengthening the UAE’s role in the global defence sector. The International Defence Conference 2025 is also set to break records, with more than 1,800 participants—an increase of 414% since its launch in 2015.

The exhibitions will address key issues such as cybersecurity, space security, and defence readiness. Experts will discuss how technological advancements and international cooperation are shaping modern defence strategies. The UAE is taking a leading role in driving innovation in defence and security, strengthening strategic partnerships, and enhancing global cooperation in the sector.

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group, stated that IDEX and NAVDEX have witnessed remarkable growth over the years. He highlighted that the UAE pavilion will span 25,000 square meters, reflecting a 4% increase, and emphasized the importance of fostering international collaboration in the defence industry.

Mona Ahmed Al Jaber, the Official Spokesperson for Tawazun Council at IDEX & NAVDEX 2025, noted that the Council’s participation as the Principal Partner underscores its commitment to advancing the UAE’s defence ecosystem. Tawazun Council will showcase key initiatives and strategic objectives in its 2,040-square-meter pavilion.

The 2025 edition of IDEX and NAVDEX is expected to see the announcement of numerous strategic partnerships and defence agreements, further solidifying its reputation as one of the world’s leading defence and security exhibitions.

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