Abu Dhabi will host the largest ever International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) and Maritime Defence and Security Exhibition (NAVDEX) from 17 February 2025, set to attract global attention with a significant increase in the number of participating companies and exhibition space. The event will feature 1,565 companies from 65 countries, a significant growth of 16% compared to the previous edition.

According to Amac News, in the coming days, the largest International Defense Exhibition (IDEX) and Maritime Defense and Security Exhibition (NAVDEX) will be launched at DEAIRNEC United Arabia, under the special patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the UAE DEAIRNE Center. This extraordinary event, which will be held from February 17 to 21, 2025, will be the world's most important gathering in the defense industry, bringing together more than 1,565 companies from 65 countries.
This year’s exhibition will witness a remarkable increase in the number of participating companies and the exhibition space. The number of companies has grown by 16% compared to the previous edition, reaching 1,565 companies, while the total exhibition space has expanded by 10%, reaching 181,501 square meters. Of these, 731 companies are new exhibitors, marking an 82% increase from the previous edition. This significant growth reflects the global attention the event is receiving.
National and International Exhibitors
One of the key features of this edition is the participation of 41 national pavilions, with the UAE’s pavilion being the largest, covering 25,000 square meters, a 4% increase from the previous edition. National companies account for 16% of the exhibitors, while international companies make up the remaining 84%. Additionally, for the first time, seven new countries—Qatar, Ethiopia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, and Cyprus—are joining the event.
Innovation Platforms
Another notable highlight of this edition is the launch of a dedicated platform for raising awareness about Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive (CBRNE) threats, which will be supported by 38 companies from 13 countries. This platform aims to raise global awareness about these critical issues. Over 3,300 products and innovations will be showcased, emphasizing the important role of IDEX and NAVDEX in supporting the defense industry and fostering competition for companies based in the UAE on both regional and international levels.
Startups and Global Collaboration
This year’s exhibition will also host more than 156 startups from around the world, accounting for 10% of the total exhibitors. The increased presence of startups, especially in the fields of advanced defense and security technologies, is a significant development in this edition. IDEX and NAVDEX not only serve as a platform for showcasing new technologies but also as an opportunity to forge strategic partnerships and strengthen international cooperation in defense and security.
Global Impact
Lieutenant General Pilot Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Higher Organizing Committee for IDEX and NAVDEX, commented: “The 2025 edition marks a milestone in our 32-year successful journey, attracting unprecedented global attention, further solidifying the UAE’s role as a regional and international hub for defense and security. This exhibition offers a unique platform for decision-makers and industry experts to come together to explore the latest advancements in defense technology and innovation.”
Looking Ahead
Hamid Matar Al Dhaheri, CEO of ADNEC Group, emphasized that the exhibition, since its inception in 1993, has witnessed remarkable growth in terms of exhibition space, participating companies, and countries. The 2025 edition will be exceptional in every way, with a 16% increase in the number of participants and a 10% increase in exhibition space. This edition is a reflection of the growing global attention and the UAE’s leadership in hosting world-class events.
A Platform for Strategic Partnerships
Lieutenant General Mubarak Saeed Al Ghaferi, Vice-Chairman of the Higher Organizing Committee for IDEX and NAVDEX 2025, added: “Since its inception in 1993, IDEX has become a landmark event in the global defense sector, directly enhancing the UAE’s position as a key player in this field. NAVDEX serves as a testament to our commitment to innovation and sustainable security, showcasing rapid advancements in naval technologies and offering a leading platform for presenting cutting-edge defense solutions in the maritime sector.”
Collaborating for Global Security
Mona Ahmed Al Jaber, the official spokesperson of the Tawazun Council at IDEX and NAVDEX 2025, stated that the council’s participation as the “Main Partner” in the exhibition, in collaboration with the Ministry of Defense, reflects its strong commitment to advancing the defense ecosystem and empowering the UAE’s defense and security industries. She added that the Tawazun Council’s participation will highlight key initiatives and strategic objectives in supporting the national defense sector.
The exhibition is also expected to see numerous strategic partnership agreements and contracts being signed, further boosting competitiveness and solidifying its place as one of the world’s most prominent international platforms.
With this, IDEX and NAVDEX 2025 will continue to enhance their prominent status as a major global event, fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and strengthening ties with strategic partners across various sectors, shaping the future of the defense industry worldwide.