The International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) and Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX) 2025, two of the most prominent global defence events, will take place from February 17-21 in Abu Dhabi under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. Organized by the Ministry of Defence in strategic partnership with ADNEC Group, these exhibitions will be accompanied by the International Defence Conference, further solidifying the UAE’s leadership in defence innovation.
A Showcase of Global Defence Expertise
Serving as vital platforms for networking and collaboration, IDEX and NAVDEX 2025 will bring together key stakeholders, including government officials, industry experts, and executives, to showcase cutting-edge defence technologies. The exhibitions offer unparalleled opportunities for fostering international partnerships, attracting investments, and advancing cooperation in defence and security industries.
Strengthening the UAE’s Defence Sector
Highlighting the UAE’s commitment to its defence industry, Staff Major General Pilot Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee, noted, “Hosting and organising major exhibitions such as IDEX & NAVDEX has reinforced Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global destination for the defence and military industries. We are confident that these events will continue to achieve remarkable success, reflecting our commitment to building a more prosperous and secure future for the world by advancing a shared vision of maintaining global stability and security.”
Staff Major General Mubarak Saeed Ghafan Al Jabri, Deputy Chairman of the committee, emphasised the role of UAE leadership in strengthening national defence industries. “The national defence and security industries sector enjoys unlimited support from the UAE leadership who seeks to enhance the capabilities of national defence industries as a vital field aligned with the UAE’s aspirations for leadership and excellence.”
He further remarked that IDEX and NAVDEX serve as platforms to attract investments, foster strategic partnerships, and contribute to the UAE’s sustainable development by promoting competitive industrial capabilities in line with global standards.
ADNEC Group’s Vision for 2025
Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director & Group CEO of ADNEC Group, highlighted the anticipated scale of the event. “We anticipate that the upcoming editions of IDEX and NAVDEX will be the largest and most significant in the history of the two events. They will contribute to promoting innovation, building new business partnerships, and shaping a vision for a more secure and stable future.” He also stressed ADNEC Group’s commitment to delivering an exceptional experience for exhibitors and visitors alike.
NAVDEX and IDEX 2025 Highlights
While IDEX will showcase the latest developments in defence technology and facilitate collaboration between global defence entities, NAVDEX will maintain its position as the MENA region’s largest maritime defence exhibition. It will feature advanced technologies, vessels, and maritime equipment, taking place at the ADNEC Marina waterfront.
Previous Success
The 2023 editions of IDEX and NAVDEX demonstrated the exhibitions’ significance, attracting over 132,000 participants from 65 countries. Featuring 41 international pavilions and 1,353 exhibitors, these events also introduced innovative initiatives like the IDEX NEXT_GEN, dedicated to startups, and the IDEX Think_Tank, which delivered strategic insights through expert-led sessions.
With expectations for record-breaking attendance and an expanded global presence, IDEX and NAVDEX 2025 aim to continue their legacy as leading events for the global defence sector.
