Verified: updated on
HOT18th
Middle East Defense Exhibition, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
IDEX
- Dates
- Show Hours:
- Highlights
- One of the world’s largest and most influential defense exhibitions.
Group tour
Airport transferLocal receptionEntry badge4-star hotelBusiness mealsFull transportSightseeing
Middle East Defense Exhibition, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Same Period Exhibition
Exhibition Data
- 1/2
- Edition
- 180000㎡
- Exhibition area
- 1565
- Exhibitors
- 206000
- Visitors
Abu Dhabi Defence Expo Details
- Organizer:
- UAE ARMED FORCES
- Venue:
- Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Centre(ADNEC)
- Address:
- Khaleej Al Arabi Street Abu Dhabi UAE - United Arab Emirates
Profile
The International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, is one of the world’s largest and most influential defense exhibitions. Established in 1993 and organized by the UAE Armed Forces, IDEX has gained increasing recognition from governments, military authorities, and arms manufacturers worldwide due to its tailored presentation of equipment that meets the specific needs of the Middle East defense market. It provides an invaluable platform for assessing the current state of the international military‑industrial sector, fostering cross‑border exchanges, and broadening the horizons and perspectives of China’s research and development efforts.
The International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) stands as a premier global forum for showcasing cutting-edge defense technologies and facilitating collaboration among international defense stakeholders. With unparalleled influence, IDEX attracts a growing number of decision‑makers from defense industries, government agencies, armed forces, and military personnel around the globe.
As a world‑leading event in the defense sector, IDEX offers extensive networking opportunities with global leaders, policymakers, and key decision‑makers, while providing access to thousands of leading contractors, original equipment manufacturers, and international delegations. The program encompasses the International Defense Conference (IDC), the IDEX and NAVDEX Launch Zones, high‑level roundtable discussions, the Innovation Pathway, and IDEX Talks. Together, IDEX and NAVDEX serve as pivotal hubs for the global defense and security community.
The scale of the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) continues to expand, accompanied by steadily rising transaction volumes, earning it the reputation as the “calling card” of the Middle East in the defense exhibition arena. At IDEX, attendees can gain insights into the latest advancements shaping the international military‑industrial landscape.
This event is not only a major gathering for the global defense community but also a critical opportunity for nations to collaborate on peace and security, jointly building a brighter future. We look forward to witnessing further innovations and breakthroughs at this year’s exhibition, as we work together to write a new chapter in the history of human defense. JuFai Network warmly invites you to join us at this edition of the show, where we anticipate expanding markets and unlocking boundless business opportunities alongside you!
Middle East Defense Exhibition, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates tickets are e-tickets. Domestic and international visitors must complete online pre-registration with real-name passport verification. After purchase, the organizer verifies visitor identity. Visitors who do not meet entry requirements may need to submit additional documents. Once approved, you will receive email confirmation or a QR code. On site, present your original passport and confirmation letter to collect a paper badge, or scan the QR code to enter.
Partial exhibitor directory and exhibitor list for Middle East Defense Exhibition, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: OPSMEN TECH CO., LTD, Denel SOC LTD, Hensoldt, JINO MOTORS, TE Connectivity, KIDDE-DEUGRA Brandschutzsysteme GmbH, and others. The 2027 edition is expected to feature 500+ exhibiting companies. To obtain the full exhibitor directory (including booth numbers and contact details), please visit the official exhibition website or contact Jufair.
Reasons to Exhibit at IDEX:
- A World-Class Defense EventAs one of the largest and most influential defense exhibitions globally, the 17th edition brought together 1,565 exhibitors from 65 countries, attracting 206,000 professional visitors—57% of whom were international buyers spanning 167 nations—making it a strategic platform for companies to showcase their capabilities and connect with global defense resources.
- The Ideal Launchpad for the Middle East MarketLocated at the crossroads of the Middle East, the UAE boasts robust defense procurement demand. During this edition, the Tawazun Council announced 55 new contracts totaling AED 25.15 billion, with 32% awarded to international firms, providing enterprises with a golden opportunity to enter the Middle Eastern and North African defense markets.
- Precision Match Across All SectorsExhibits span land, sea, air, space, and electronic domains, ranging from unmanned systems and counter‑UAV technologies to aerospace and naval vessels, precisely aligning with the defense procurement needs of participating nations. With 41 national pavilions showcasing leading global defense manufacturers, the event offers a one‑stop platform for connecting with international buyers.
- A Vanguard for Unmanned SystemsUnmanned and counter‑unmanned technologies took center stage, with the UAE’s EDGE Group unveiling 46 new products, Russia’s T‑90MS tank equipped with drone‑defence systems, and cutting‑edge innovations such as South Korea’s hybrid air‑defense system and Sweden’s coastal radar—all prominently displayed, providing a premier stage for companies to secure a leading position in unmanned equipment technology.
- China’s Comprehensive Defense Presence on the Global StageFor the fifth time, China’s national defense delegation made a collective appearance, with its pavilion ranking among the largest national exhibits. Leading Chinese enterprises—including AVIC and AECC—presented state‑of‑the‑art fighter jets, drones, and aviation engines, highlighting the overall strength of China’s defense industry and offering robust endorsement for companies seeking to leverage the national brand to expand into overseas markets.
- Deep Integration into the Innovation EcosystemFor the first time, an Innovation Lab, a Startup Zone, and a CBRNE Global Center were established, bringing together over 100 startups and 38 specialized protective‑technology firms. An international defense conference drew more than 1,800 participants, including 55 heads of military delegations and 40 CEOs of defense companies, providing a high‑end platform for enterprises to access global innovation resources and stay abreast of emerging trends.
Range
- Chinese Defense Enterprises: AVIC, AECC, NORINCO, AVIC International, CSSC Trading, CSSC International Trade, China National Precision Machinery Import & Export Corporation, CETC International Trade, and CASIC International Trade
- UAE-Based Industry Leaders: EDGE Group, Millimeter Company, Abu Dhabi Ship Building, Calidus, and Kadolis
- U.S. Defense Giants: Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Raytheon Technologies, Northrop Grumman, General Dynamics, L3Harris, Kratos Defense, Anduril Industries, Shield AI, AeroVironment, and AM General
- Russian Defense Contractors: Rosoboronexport and UVZ
- South Korean Defense Companies: Hanwha Group, LIG Nex1, Hyundai Rotem, Kia Motors, Hyundai Wia, Hancom Lifecare, Toyama Corporation, and Korea Aerospace Industries
- European and Other International Players: Saab Group, BAE Systems, KNDS France, MBDA Missile Systems, Rheinmetall, Thales Group, Dassault Aviation, Turkish Aerospace Industries, Elbit Systems, IMI Systems, and Pilatus Aircraft
Review
The 17th edition of the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX 2025) and the 8th Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX 2025) was successfully held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from February 17 to 21, 2025. The event spanned a total exhibition area of 181,000 square meters, attracting 1,565 exhibiting companies from 65 countries. With 41 national pavilions on display, the show drew over 206,000 visitors, including 57% international attendees representing 167 nations.
The UAE’s Tawazun Council announced a total of 55 new contracts worth AED 25.15 billion (approximately RMB 49.7 billion), marking a 10% increase compared with the previous edition, with 68% of these contracts awarded to local enterprises. Seven countries, including Qatar, Hungary, and Lithuania, made their debut at the exhibition, while Russian defense firms returned to the main hall. The UAE’s EDGE Group showcased more than 200 pieces of equipment, 46 of which were new products, such as the AI‑enabled “Hawk” RCV unmanned combat vehicle and the HT‑750 unmanned helicopter.
Unmanned and counter‑unmanned technologies took center stage, with the UAE presenting a comprehensive array of land, sea, and air unmanned combat platforms. Russia’s T‑90MS tank was fitted with drone‑defence systems, South Korea’s Hanwha Group unveiled a hybrid short‑range air defence system, and Sweden’s Saab introduced its latest coastal‑control radar.
China participated for the fifth time as a unified national delegation under the “China Defence” banner, with its pavilion ranking among the largest national exhibits. AVIC presented an exhibit themed “Taking Flight with Dreams,” spanning over 370 square meters and featuring products across seven major categories—fighter aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles, transport aircraft, helicopters, trainer aircraft, and counter‑unmanned systems—with the “Xuan Ge”‑2000 unmanned helicopter serving as a visual highlight. China Aviation Engine Corporation also joined the exhibition for the first time, showcasing five engine models, including the “Taihang” and AES100.
Concurrent with the exhibition, an International Defence Conference brought together more than 1,800 participants to discuss pressing global security challenges and supply-chain resilience. For the first time, an Innovation Lab, a Start-up Zone, and a CBRNE Global Hub were established, hosting over 100 start-ups and 38 specialized protective‑equipment companies. The next edition of the event is scheduled for January 25–29, 2027, with 70% of exhibition spaces already reserved in advance.
IDEX Exhibitior List
Middle East Defense Exhibition, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Range
- Industrial and Building Security ,
- Closed-Circuit Television ,
- Alarm Systems ,
- Perimeter Defense and Fencing ,
- Food Safety and Counter-Terrorism Measures ,
- Security Management ,
- IT System Security
- Counterintelligence and Surveillance ,
- Anti-Surveillance/Anti-Vandalism Measures ,
- Long-Range Communications ,
- Radar and Detection Technologies ,
- Unmanned Aerial Vehicles ,
- Communication Monitoring Equipment ,
- Interception Devices ,
- Electronic Counter-Surveillance
- Explosive Ordnance Control ,
- Supply Chain and Maritime Security ,
- Nuclear and Radiological Screening Systems ,
- Import–Export Controls ,
- Aviation Security
- Expert Training ,
- Specialized Vehicles ,
- Ballistic Protection ,
- Small Arms ,
- MOE Equipment ,
- Crime Investigation Techniques ,
- Forensic Tools ,
- Ballistic Analysis
- Nuclear Material Security/Handling ,
- Biological Terrorism Mitigation ,
- Natural Disasters ,
- Early Warning Technologies ,
- Disaster Logistics ,
- Supplies and Shelters ,
- Disaster Prevention and Management ,
- CBRN Detectors
- Emergency Response Personnel Training ,
- Weapons, Protective Gear, and Rescue Equipment ,
- Firefighting, Police, and Medical Services ,
- CBRN Emergency Response ,
- Detection Equipment ,
- Software Applications ,
- Protective Clothing ,
- Roles and Responsibilities ,
- Emergency Management ,
- Emergency Rescue
Booth Sales
Ms. LiGold-Medal PM
3 Years Booth Sales
2027 Abu Dhabi Defence Ticket Sales
Mr. HanGold-Medal PM
3 Years Booth Sales
Ms. LiuGold-Medal PM
3 Years Booth Sales
Abu Dhabi Defence Venue
Abu Dhabi Defence Booth Price
Process
- 1.Submit the business license of the company
- 2.Submit product picture and name
- 3.Receive exhibition presentation documents and booth drawings
- 4.Submit booth application form/Sign booth contract
- 5.Pay the contract booth deposit
- 6.Prepare for exhibition