Future Ready Defence capabilities

The 2021 edition of IDEX and NAVDEX will convene the finest minds from across the globe in Abu Dhabi to focus on impact of innovation and technology on military and defence

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX 2021) and the Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX 2021) have completed preparations for the exhibitions, will take place until February 25 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

IDEX and NAVDEX are organised by the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC), in cooperation with the Ministry of Defense and the General Command of the UAE Armed Forces. The exhibitions showcase the latest technologies and innovation in the global defence sector, support the growth of UAE's defence industry, and forge new relationships between major international companies.

Major General Staff Pilot Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei,

Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee for IDEX and NAVDEX

Major General Staff Pilot Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee for IDEX and NAVDEX, said: "Since its inception, IDEX has supported the national and international defence sector. In doing so, this exhibition has furthered the establishment of the UAE on the regional and global stage. IDEX and NAVDEX are among the world's most strategic and vital events, providing an integrated global platform that showcases cutting-edge technology and development. These developments empower participants to be informed of the latest breakthroughs in the fourth industrial revolution across land, sea, and air defence sectors. This edition marks the commencement of the recovery phase from the Covid-19 pandemic, in spite of the ongoing global conditions. It will demonstrate how Abu Dhabi and the UAE are ready and able to organise, deliver, and host leading international events.

"Decision makers and experts from these important sectors will be heavily involved throughout these exhibitions," continued Major General Staff Pilot Al Mazrouei.

"And we will witness a wide global participation at this edition. Defence industry leaders from across the world will be able to build fruitful partnerships and further develop their respective national sectors through these exhibitions."

Major General Pilot Staff Pilot Ishaq Saleh Al-Balushi, Head of the Executive Directorate of Industries and Development of Defense Capabilities at the Ministry of Defense and Vice Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee for IDEX and NAVDEX, added: "We are immensely proud to launch IDEX, NAVDEX and the International Defence Conference 2021 during this time. The international community is confident in our ability to organise these exhibitions on schedule.

"In close cooperation with ADNEC, the Higher Organising Committee has developed detailed and thorough plans to organise these exceptional editions. They mark the first live event of the global defence sector during the recovery phase from Covid-19, in addition to being the largest in-person event in Abu Dhabi since the pandemic.

"Our nation is a global example in our management of the Covid-19 pandemic. The UAE is actively handling the recovery and revitalisation of the nation's economic sector. We continue to support the global defence community, enabling its leaders to continue forging new economic success."

The International Defence Conference will bring together over 24 experts and specialists from across the world during its physical and virtual sessions. Over 2,000 leaders and senior executives from more than 80 countries, representing the global defence sector, will be able to meet and do business, while working with a range of bodies which bolster nations' peacekeeping infrastructure. This further supports the UAE's international leadership and its pivotal role in supporting defence on a local, regional, and international level.

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri,

Managing Director and

Group CEO of ADNEC

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC, stated: "Over 900 exhibitors from 59 nations are expected to take part in the 2021 editions, with 35 national pavilions. IDEX and NAVDEX will welcome over 70,000 local and international visitors during five days, in addition to 110 international delegations confirmed their attendance. Over 500 journalists from 64 nations will cover both the exhibitions and the conference," commented Al Dhaheri.

IDEX and NAVDEX will be hosted across ADNEC's indoor and outdoor exhibition space, which reached about 155,000 square metres.

Outdoor space and water demonstrations for NAVDEX will take place at the ADNEC Marina, spanning across 81,000 square metres.

• Supplements