Latest news with #InternationalDefenceExhibition


Al Etihad
05-03-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Rabdan Academy highlights specialised programmes in safety, crisis management at IDEX
18 Feb 2025 22:15 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)Rabdan Academy's presence at the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) 2025 highlights its leadership in shaping the future of defence and security, said Salem Saeed Al Saeedi, Vice President of Rabdan until February 21 at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi, IDEX and the Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX) gather leading global companies and experts in the defence industry, demonstrating the latest technologies and solutions in the sector. "As a hub of expertise, Rabdan Academy brings together policymakers, defence leaders and global experts to address evolving security challenges," Al Saeedi told Aletihad . At their booth, Rabdan Academy is showcasing its specialised programmes in safety, security, as well as crisis management. In addition, the Rabdan Security and Defence Institute (RSDI) is scheduled to make its debut, bringing together researchers, experts, and organisations to collaborate on building a safer platform covers security assessments, defence strategies, emergency preparedness, along with crisis management. Al Saeedi added that the RSDI will provide insights on cybersecurity and infrastructure protection at IDEX 2025. During the exhibition, the academy will lead expert panels on cybersecurity, autonomous weapons, as well as space defence, in order to integrate academic knowledge with practical application, he institute aims to tackle rising threats to critical infrastructure through a special focus on strengthening cyber resiliency, developing AI-powered threat detection, and improving digital forensics also aims to enhance cooperation between universities, industries, and governments to build formidable security frameworks. Speaking at a panel at IDEX 2025 on autonomous weapons and their potential dangers, Al Saeedi said: "Autonomous weapon systems (AWS) are transforming the defence landscape, offering unprecedented operational precision and efficiency while raising critical ethical and security considerations." The IDEX 2025 panel on AWS explored the strategic implications of these systems, focusing on their benefits, challenges and Academy and the RSDI are also addressing the strategic implications of weaponising space during IDEX Talks, as Al Saeedi said: "Space has emerged as a pivotal domain for defence and security, with its assets serving both civilian and military functions. At IDEX Talks, Rabdan Academy and RSDI are leading discussions on the strategic implications of space security, exploring ways to protect critical space infrastructure and prevent escalation in this contested domain."The academy aims to balance technological advancement with responsible governance, developing innovative policies and technologies to secure space-based assets and contribute to peaceful exploration, he cooperates fully with global experts to deal with emerging security challenges. Through initiatives such as the INSIGHTS publication and various forums, they encourage discussion and sharing of knowledge. Al Saeedi also elaborated on the academy's partnership with INTERPOL and other organisations. "Rabdan Academy is working to become part of the respected INTERPOL Global Academy Network, a platform renowned for improving training standards for law enforcement agencies around the world. This step reflects the academy's commitment to building strong partnerships, sharing knowledge and supporting the development of talent both nationally and globally.""The partnership with INTERPOL will focus on practical collaboration, including joint training programmes, workshops, seminars and study tours. Together, they aim to create impactful learning experiences, enhance readiness for future challenges and equip law enforcement professionals with the tools and skills needed to navigate an ever-changing security landscape. Rabdan Academy's vision is to play a leading role in fostering expertise and cooperation to strengthen global security efforts," he added. Rabdan Academy will also announce new global partnerships, strengthening its leadership in security and defence. IDEX and NAVDEX 2025 Continue full coverage


Express Tribune
01-03-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Pakistan Navy joins UAE defence exhibition to strengthen maritime ties
Listen to article A Pakistan Navy ship is participating in an international defence exhibition in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as part of efforts to strengthen maritime relations with the Gulf nation, the military's media wing said on Saturday. The Pakistan Navy Ship (PNS) Yarmouk arrived in the UAE for the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) and the Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX 25), the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement. Several high-profile officials, including the UAE's minister for tolerance and the defence ministers of Romania and Yemen, visited the vessel. 'Participation in the defence exhibition reflects Pakistan's strong defence ties with the UAE and its active role in global maritime security initiatives,' the ISPR stated. Pakistan has intensified its naval diplomacy in recent years, particularly with Gulf nations, as part of efforts to enhance maritime security and defence collaboration. The growing engagement aligns with Islamabad's broader strategy of maintaining stability in regional waters and securing trade routes amid evolving geopolitical dynamics. The UAE event, featuring naval vessels from eight nations and participation from 65 countries, follows Pakistan's hosting of the AMAN-25 multinational exercise, where 60 countries took part in maritime drills aimed at enhancing regional security and cooperation. Following AMAN-25, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia conducted the Affaa Al Sahil bilateral naval exercise, which concluded in Karachi last month with a demonstration of firepower and combat tactics. During its visit to the UAE, PNS Yarmouk also conducted joint exercises with the UAE Navy's ship Al Emarat, reinforcing operational coordination between the two navies.


Mid East Info
24-02-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
IDEX and NAVDEX 2025 conclude with record-breaking and historic results, garnering widespread international acclaim from exhibitors and official delegations
The number of visitors increased to 206,073, marking a 55.5% growth compared to the previous edition. International visitors accounted for 57% from 167 countries, while 43% were local visitors. The UAE ranked first in visitor numbers, followed by China, Turkey, the USA, India, France, Russia, South Korea, the UK, Saudi Arabia, Germany, and Ukraine. Male visitors made up 85% of the total, while female visitors accounted for 15%. The total value of deals reached AED 25.15 billion, reflecting a 10% increase compared to the previous edition. Emirati companies secured 68% of the Armed Forces' contracts during the exhibition. 70% of the exhibition space for the 2027 edition has already been pre-booked. The next edition of the exhibition is scheduled to take place from 25 to 29 January 2027. The number of exhibiting companies rose to 1,565, representing a 16% increase and 65 countries, including seven new ones. A total of 41 national pavilions participated from across the globe. The exhibition space expanded by 10%, reaching 181,501 square metres. 213 national companies participated in both exhibitions, making up 16% of the total exhibitors. The event attracted 156 start-ups, accounting for 10% of the total exhibiting companies. 6,000 university students attended to explore the latest technologies, develop their skills, and foster innovation in these critical sectors who make up 3% of the exhibition visitors. The exhibitor satisfaction score on the NPS index rose to +34 points, significantly exceeding the global exhibition industry benchmark of +8 points—300% above the global standard. The visitor satisfaction score on the NPS index increased to +63 points, compared to the global benchmark of +29 points—119% higher than the global average. Abu Dhabi,February 2025 – Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, the largest-ever editions of the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) and the Naval Defence and Maritime Security Exhibition (NAVDEX) 2025 have successfully concluded. The events, held from 17 to 21 February at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, set record-breaking participation and deal values over five days, with visitor numbers soaring by more than 55.5% to reach 206,073 attendees from around the world. Organised by ADNEC Group in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Defence and Tawazun Council, the exhibitions received widespread international acclaim from participants, visitors, senior leaders, decision-makers, and industry experts in the defence sector. Notably, 70% of exhibition space for the 2027 edition has already been pre-booked, which will take place from 25 to 29 January 2027. The Tawazun Council, the independent government entity responsible for acquisitions, procurement, and contracts for the Ministry of Defence and security agencies in the UAE, announced 55 new deals worth AED 25.15 billion over five days, reflecting a 10% increase compared to the previous edition. These agreements, signed with local and international defence firms, underscore the UAE's commitment to enhancing its defence capabilities and fostering global industrial partnerships. Strategic Success and Industry Impact: His Excellency Major General Pilot Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of IDEX and NAVDEX, stated that the strong participation in this year's exhibitions underscores the UAE's esteemed global standing and the significant advancements in its national defence industries. He emphasised that these achievements are driven by the expertise and dedication of Emirati talent, reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as a global hub for thought leaders, decision-makers, and a centre for innovation and excellence in these vital sectors. His Excellency extended his gratitude to ADNEC Group, the teams within the Higher Organising Committee, all subcommittees, and national institutions from both the public and private sectors, whose efforts contributed to the success of this prestigious global event. His Excellency Major General Staff Mubarak Saeed Ghafan Al Jabri, Deputy Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of IDEX and NAVDEX, stated that national companies achieved remarkable success in this year's edition of the exhibitions. These companies showcased the advancement of their industries and products and made significant progress in enhancing local technological capabilities through knowledge transfer. Moreover, they have become key contributors to several critical sectors in the UAE, particularly in aviation, naval systems, advanced technologies (such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity), and space. He highlighted that this edition witnessed a notable increase in the number of partnerships and the total value of deals announced during this global event. National companies secured 68% of the total contracts signed by the Tawazun Council, while 32% were awarded to international companies. This underscores the technological growth and innovation achieved by UAE-based companies. His Excellency emphasized that the success story of IDEX and NAVDEX extends beyond the reported visitor and participant numbers. It reflects the UAE's excellence and leadership in the defense industries sector and the significant advancements made over the past three decades. The exhibitions also demonstrate the country's continuous efforts to attract and integrate the latest Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies, leveraging them to serve humanity and uphold global security and stability. Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group, stated that IDEX and NAVDEX serve as fundamental pillars in ADNEC Group's efforts to support national economic diversification. This is achieved by providing opportunities that contribute to the development of various industrial sectors and by organising and hosting major events that have attracted visitors from across the world. The number of visitors reached 206,073, reflecting a growth rate of over 55.5% compared to the previous edition. The current edition recorded a significant increase in the percentage of international visitors, reaching 57% of the total attendees from 167 countries, while local visitors accounted for 43%. The visitor demographics included 85% male attendees and 15% female attendees. The UAE ranked first in visitor numbers, followed by China, Turkey, the United States, India, France, Russia, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, Germany, and Ukraine. Al Dhaheri added that IDEX and NAVDEX have presented a continuous success story for more than three decades in the exhibition and conference industry. These events have played a vital role in supporting national economic diversification and shaping the roadmap for the next 50 years, in alignment with the vision of the wise leadership to support and develop vital and promising sectors through the adoption of advanced technologies and industries. This has reinforced the UAE's position as a global hub for innovation and technology. The exhibitions have also contributed to GDP growth, income diversification, and the advancement of advanced industries, which are crucial to economic development, while also creating job opportunities across various industrial sectors in the country. Al Dhaheri highlighted that the current edition achieved a record level of exhibitor satisfaction, as measured by the Net Promoter Score (NPS), reaching +34 points. This exceeds the global industry benchmark of +8 points by 300%. Meanwhile, the visitor satisfaction index rose to +63 points, compared to the global benchmark of +29 points, representing an increase of 119% over the international standard. He expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Defense, the Tawazun Council, and all national institutions in both the public and private sectors for their efforts and support in ensuring the success of the largest edition in the history of IDEX and NAVDEX, presenting it in the best possible manner that reflects the prestige and standing of the UAE on both regional and international levels. Unprecedented Levels of Satisfaction Among Exhibitors and Visitors: The 2025 editions of IDEX and NAVDEX achieved record-breaking satisfaction levels among exhibitors and visitors. ADNEC Group collaborated with a leading global research firm, GRS, to conduct on-site surveys throughout the exhibitions. The NPS for exhibitors reached +34, significantly exceeding the global average of +8, marking a substantial increase in exhibition industry benchmarks. Exhibitor satisfaction regarding return on investment (ROI) reached 4.31, compared to the global standard of 3.97, a 9% improvement. Visitor satisfaction increased to +63, far surpassing the global benchmark of +29. The visitor engagement index (ROI) soared to 4.38, compared to the global benchmark of 4.00, an 11% increase. General visitor satisfaction stood at 4.31, exceeding the global standard of 4.02. International Defence Conference and Innovations: The 2025 International Defence Conference, held alongside the exhibitions, attracted over 1,800 attendees, a 25% increase from the previous edition. It featured participation from 55 military delegation heads, 40 CEOs of defence companies, 48 ambassadors, and 65 military attachés. Discussions centred on global security challenges, supply chain resilience, information warfare, and emerging threats in space, with 12 prominent speakers including ministers and top defence officials. IDEX & NAVDEX 2025 Highlights: This year's editions introduced several first-time features and initiatives. IDEX showcased advancements across 17 critical defence sectors, including land, air, and unmanned systems. Cutting-edge technologies such as navigation, radar, command and control, electronic warfare, and personal defence systems were displayed, reflecting modern military readiness and operational excellence. NAVDEX 2025, in its eighth edition, featured an exceptional display of naval fleets from eight nations, including the UAE, Bahrain, Oman, Pakistan, Greece, South Korea, and India. Vessels and maritime systems were exhibited at ADNEC Marina and Zayed Port, reinforcing the growing significance of maritime security and naval defence solutions. A Global Platform for Defence and Security: The current edition of the exhibition featured 1,565 companies from 65 countries, marking a 16% increase compared to the previous edition. Additionally, the total exhibition space expanded by 10%, reaching 181,501 square metres. A total of 731 companies participated for the first time, representing an 82% increase, alongside 213 Emirati companies, which accounted for 16% of the total exhibitors, reflecting the advancement of the UAE's defence industries sector. For the first time, seven countries participated in IDEX, including Qatar, Ethiopia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, and Cyprus. Furthermore, Hall 14 was inaugurated, accommodating 341 exhibiting companies, further enhancing the diversity and scale of exhibits. In a related development, the exhibition featured more than 156 start-ups from around the world, representing 10% of all exhibitors. These companies showcased a wide range of innovations and technologies to decision-makers and industry specialists. A Platform for Preparing Future Generations: The exhibitions and the accompanying conference welcomed the participation of over 6,000 university students from various disciplines, representing a wide range of higher education institutions and universities across the UAE, who make up 3% of the exhibition visitors. These students attended the exhibition to explore the latest technologies and cutting-edge equipment in the defence industry. Additionally, they engaged in discussion workshops featuring key decision-makers and experts from around the world. IDEX and NAVDEX 2025 serve as incubators for developing national talent, broadening their horizons and guiding their interests towards future academic studies in the defence and security industries—sectors that form a key pillar of the UAE's future economic development plans. Moreover, the exhibitions play a crucial role in transferring and localising advanced knowledge within the country, preparing future generations through direct interaction with industry leaders. This equips them with the skills needed to lead these vital sectors, increasing both direct and indirect contributions to the national economy while ensuring sustainable growth across various economic and knowledge-based sectors, in line with the aspirations of the nation's leadership. Additionally, participants explored a wide array of advanced technologies and programmes showcased in the Innovation Trail over five days. They also gained insights into the programmes, and initiatives offered by a diverse range of national institutions across the public and private sectors, which provide support for research and development initiatives. These efforts contribute to the growth of start-ups, enhance their competitiveness and open new regional and international market opportunities. Exhibition features: Dedicated platforms for start-ups included IDEX Next Gen, which hosted over 100 start-ups from around the world. Additionally, IDEX introduced the first-ever global (CBRNE Hub), a platform that convened leaders, experts, decision-makers, and leading companies specialising in defence against CBRNE threats (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosives). The hub featured 38 companies from 13 countries. Other notable initiatives included the IDEX Innovation Trail and IDEX Future Labs, further strengthening the exhibition's role as a global platform for innovation and industry advancements.


Mid East Info
24-02-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Dates for IDEX and NAVDEX 2027 confirmed with 70% of exhibitors committing to the next edition - Middle East Business News and Information
The International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) and Naval Defence & Maritime Security Exhibition (NAVDEX) will return to Abu Dhabi in 2027, taking place at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from January 21 to 25. Organised by ADNEC Group in strategic partnership with Tawazun Council and the Ministry of Defence, this edition of the biennial event promises to be even larger and most impactful since its inception in 1993. Interest in IDEX and NAVDEX 2027 is already at an all-time high, with 70% of current exhibitors already rebooking and confirming their attendance, underscoring the growing anticipation for this landmark event. The International Defence Conference (IDC) will also take place a day prior to the exhibition. IDC serves as a global platform bringing together key decision makers, experts, and leaders from around the world. The event aims to promote collaboration among nations, institutions, and defence companies by discussing key global issues and threats and presenting innovative solutions to overcome future challenges. Building on its legacy as a leading global defence event, IDEX and NAVDEX 2025 concluded with record-breaking success on February 21. The five-day exhibition set new benchmarks in the number of exhibitors and the value of deals signed. This remarkable achievement highlights the growing significance of IDEX and NAVDEX as the premier platforms for defence innovation and strategic partnerships. With more than 1,500 exhibitors and an expanded exhibition space, the 2025 event demonstrated the UAE's leadership in the global defence sector and its ability to establish and facilitate meaningful collaborations. For IDEX and NAVDEX 2027, the stakes are even higher. The exhibitions will offer an expanded platform for industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders to come together, showcasing the latest and most innovative technologies that promise to shape the future of the defence industry. This edition will further solidify IDEX and NAVDEX as the go-to event for networking, knowledge-sharing, and forging long-term strategic partnerships in the defence sector.


Broadcast Pro
24-02-2025
- Business
- Broadcast Pro
EDGE and Leonardo strengthen partnership with new defence agreement
The agreement also paves the way for joint marketing efforts targeting international governments and commits both companies to developing shared intellectual property and future design innovations. Photo credit: WAM EDGE, the UAE-based advanced technology group, and Leonardo, a global leader in aerospace, defence and security, have signed a major collaboration agreement to expand their partnership across six key defence domains. Signed at the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) 2025 in Abu Dhabi, the agreement establishes a strategic framework to strengthen cooperation in the UAE market while driving global export initiatives. The partnership will enhance synergies, facilitate knowledge exchange and optimise resources to capitalise on emerging defence opportunities. The collaboration will focus on six critical areas: Airborne Capabilities, including Radar for Multi-Mission Aircraft; Anti-Tactical Ballistic Missile Defence; Counter-Drone and Mobile Surveillance Systems; Naval Combat Management Systems; Radio Communications; and Optronics Commander Sight. Commenting on the deal, Hamad Al Marar, EDGE Group Managing Director & CEO, said: 'This important step marks the next phase in our existing strategic agreement with industry leader Leonardo, building on the opportunities presented by the strong relationship between the UAE and Italy. Fundamentally, however, it reinforces our vision of growth through mutually beneficial partnerships, ensuring a win-win approach to sourcing and realising complementary multi-domain opportunities across the world, and expanding these synergies for continued economic growth, innovation, and excellence, all in support of the sustainable preservation of security.' The agreement is a precursor to a structured partnership focused on jointly marketing these products and solutions to governments across multiple countries. It also commits to the development of shared intellectual property (IP) and future design innovations. Lorenzo Mariani, Co-General Manager of Leonardo, added: 'We are deeply honoured and thrilled to collaborate with EDGE Group, aiming to establish unprecedented industrial capabilities for national and export requirements. The sectors identified as pillars of this joint strategy are getting more and more important in an evolving market and operational scenario. That is why we believe that joining forces in these fields will deliver the level of capabilities that the UAE and other export markets are requiring. The strategic agreement aims to further enhance the capabilities of both EDGE and Leonardo in the design of cutting-edge, complex systems in disruptive sectors with significant market potential, and is a crucial step in diversifying and expanding both groups portfolios of airborne, terrestrial, naval, and cyber solutions.'