The 17th International Defence Exhibition, IDEX 2025, opened in Abu Dhabi under the patronage of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, officially inaugurated the event at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi on February 17. This edition is the largest in the history of IDEX, cementing the UAE's growing stature in the global defence market.
Record Participation at IDEX 2025 Abu Dhabi
The current edition brings together 1,565 companies representing 65 countries — a 16% increase over the previous edition — and runs through February 21. Total exhibition space expanded by 10% to reach 181,501 square metres, the largest in the event's history. The newly opened Hall 14 alone accommodated 341 exhibitors.
First-time participants surged by 82%, with 731 companies exhibiting at IDEX for the first time. UAE-based firms accounted for 213 of the total exhibitors, representing 16% of all companies present. Seven nations made their IDEX debut this year: Qatar, Ethiopia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, and Cyprus.
Over 3,300 Defence Products on Display
IDEX 2025 showcases more than 3,300 cutting-edge products across key defence domains, including:
- Land and air defence systems - Artificial intelligence and robotics - Cybersecurity solutions - Advanced protection systems
A major highlight is the inaugural Global CBRNE Hub, which brings together 38 companies from 13 nations to address Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive threats — reflecting the growing importance of non-conventional defence preparedness.
Sheikh Hamdan on UAE's Defence Ambitions
Sheikh Hamdan underscored the significance of the UAE's defence achievements at the opening ceremony.
"The advancements recorded by the UAE's defence sector are testament to decades of hard work and commitment to the nation's progress," he said, adding that under visionary leadership, "the country remains committed to promoting peace."
He further stated that the UAE "dedicates itself to worldwide peace by recognising security as a key element for maintaining national advancement."
UAE Strengthens Its Global Defence Role
Organised by ADNEC Group in partnership with the Ministry of Defence and the Tawazun Council, IDEX 2025 features specialised conferences, panel discussions, and live demonstrations. The event serves as a strategic platform for international defence cooperation, with the UAE using the exhibition to deepen partnerships across five continents.
The record-breaking participation at this year's International Defence Exhibition in Abu Dhabi reflects the UAE's expanding influence in global security and technology sectors.
