His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, visited IDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi to personally reaffirm the UAE's commitment to strengthening its defence sector. The 17th edition of the International Defence Exhibition set a new record as the largest in the event's history, drawing the biggest-ever attendance of top defence companies, military officials, and industry leaders.
Sheikh Hamdan's Tour of IDEX 2025
During his tour of the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Sheikh Hamdan explored the latest in defence technologies across multiple pavilions, in line with the leadership's strategic plan to advance key national sectors. He was accompanied by senior officials including Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The Crown Prince inspected state-of-the-art equipment and systems at stands operated by the UAE's own Edge Group and CARACAL, as well as international exhibitors including Italy's Beretta and Russia's Kalashnikov. He also reviewed the missile defence systems presented by China's NORINCO, which mounted a strong showing at this year's edition.
Sheikh Hamdan underscored the importance of a robust domestic defence sector, stating that "having a sturdy defence industry serves as an essential element for both national growth and international protection, which strengthens the country's capacity to maintain peace and stability in the world."
Record-Breaking Scale at IDEX 2025 Abu Dhabi
This year's IDEX drew participation from 1,565 companies across 65 countries — a 16 percent increase on the previous edition — spread across more than 181,000 square metres of exhibition space. Total visitor numbers reached over 206,000, a rise of more than 55 percent compared to IDEX 2023.
The UAE's Edge Group alone concluded the event with $2.9 billion in new sales, signing 16 major contracts and 32 international agreements, and unveiled 46 new systems and solutions during the five-day show.
UAE's Strategic Defence Ambitions
IDEX 2025 reinforced the UAE's position as a leading hub for military innovation and international defence partnerships. The exhibition remains one of the world's top platforms for land, air, and naval defence technologies, bringing together governments and private-sector firms to drive the next generation of national security systems.
Sheikh Hamdan's visit underlined that expanding the UAE's defence industrial base is a long-term national priority, supporting both regional stability and the country's broader economic diversification goals.
