For more than 30 years, the UAE's defence shows have represented the country's ambitions

A visitor at a past exhibition takes a look at a 7.62x51 calibre rifle. Victor Besa / The National

With steady strides, the UAE continues to solidify its position as a global leader in industrial and technological innovation, particularly in the sectors of defence and security. The Tawazun Council stands as one of the strategic pillars driving this vision forward, empowering national industries and enhancing their position within the global framework.

These efforts are complemented by a comprehensive system that includes leading national companies, advanced infrastructure, and supportive legislation aligned with global transformations. This integrated system fosters synergy between national security objectives and sustainable development, positioning the UAE as an attractive destination for advanced defence and technology industries.

This year's International Defence Exhibition (Idex) and Naval Defence Exhibition (Navdex) from February 17-21 represent an embodiment of the UAE’s ambitious vision, uniting national aspirations with global industrial capabilities on a single platform. These exhibitions serve as an ideal launchpad for enhancing collaboration and strategic partnerships among major defence companies, thought leaders and decision-makers from around the world, providing an opportunity to show the latest technological innovations and discuss innovative solutions to contemporary security and defence challenges.

A model of the combat vessel at Navdex 2023. Victor Besa / The National

Since their inception in 1993, Idex and Navdex have grown into a global success story that reflects the UAE’s ambitions. In the previous 2023 edition, the exhibitions attracted over 1,350 exhibiting companies from 65 countries, with 132,507 visitors, and recorded signed deals exceeding Dh23.34 billion. Building on this success, the 2025 edition is set to further establish the UAE as a global hub for defence innovation and industrial collaboration, reinforcing the synergy between national security and economic development.

National security is no longer confined to building traditional military strength

In an era characterised by accelerating technological advancements and escalating security challenges, national security is no longer confined to building traditional military strength. It increasingly relies on integrating advanced technologies and fostering innovation as a key driver of defence readiness. Guided by this vision, the Tawazun Council works to design and implement strategic policies to fully support national defence industries by empowering local talent and building international partnerships that ensure the transfer of knowledge and technology to the UAE.

The synergy among various state institutions and ministries, such as the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, has significantly contributed to developing a world-class digital infrastructure. This infrastructure places the UAE at the forefront of the region and elevates its global standing. Such cross-sectoral collaboration has enabled the nation to adopt cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing and the Internet of Things, providing a robust foundation for national defence industries and enhancing their technological readiness.

Strategic partnerships are the cornerstone of success for any industrial sector, particularly defence, which requires the integration of local expertise with advanced global technologies. The Tawazun Council is dedicated to strengthening its relationships with national and international companies, leveraging the latest technological advancements and global expertise to develop national defence manufacturing capabilities.

As Idex and Navdex 2025 approach, the Tawazun Council reaffirms its unwavering support for the UAE’s vision. We extend an invitation to all interested stakeholders and specialists to participate in this global platform that embodies the UAE’s ambitions. These events are more than exhibitions; they are a global forum for innovation, collaboration, and addressing defence challenges.

Through this event, the UAE demonstrates its ability to offer an inspiring model that enhances the integration of national security and sustainable development, solidifying its position as a driving force for stability and innovation on the regional and global stage.