The Dubai Airshow opens on November 17, with organisers expecting the largest edition in its history as global aerospace and defence companies gather to showcase new technologies and outline industry priorities.
The five-day event at Dubai World Central features more than 1,500 exhibitors, including 440 newcomers, and is expected to draw 148,000 trade visitors and 490 military and civil delegations from 115 countries, organisers said.
The 19th edition, which concludes on November 21, includes 21 national pavilions, 98 chalets and 8,000 square metres of additional exhibition space, alongside 120 startups and 50 investors.
More than 200 aircraft will be on display across flying and static areas, the biggest line-up to date.
Models include Joby Aviation’s eVTOL, General Atomics’ CCA, the Bristell B23 915 IFR, and newcomers COMAC C919 and C929.
The airshow has grown into a major global venue for investment discussions and new technology demonstrations, reflecting Dubai’s ongoing ambitions in aviation, defence, and space.
UAE expands space presence at Dubai Airshow
This year’s edition will host the largest Space Pavilion to date, held with the UAE Space Agency.
The pavilion will bring together international space agencies, companies, startups, investors and academic institutions, while a two-day conference will feature over 50 speakers discussing responsible space activity, new technologies and future exploration missions.
“Dubai Airshow represents a leading global platform to showcase the remarkable progress the UAE has achieved in the space sector,” said Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports and chairman of the UAE Space Agency. He said the expansion reflects the UAE’s efforts to build “a comprehensive and sustainable space economy”.
Major General Mubarak Saeed bin Ghafan Al Jabri, ED of the Military Committee, said the airshow remains a venue for showcasing the UAE’s defence-sector investments and international partnerships. Several aerobatic teams will perform during the show.
Expanded conference programme
This year’s conference agenda will be the largest yet, featuring more than 450 speakers across four stages and 12 content tracks.
New themes include MRO, airport and airline keynotes hosted by Dubai Airports, advanced air mobility, workforce development, passenger experience, cybersecurity and airport technology.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said the keynote track will bring together senior aviation leaders to discuss issues such as air traffic growth, digital transformation and sustainability.
He said the Sustainability Showcase, organised with dnata, flydubai and other partners, will feature a “world-first” fully sustainable aircraft turnaround.
First eVTOL flying display
Advanced Air Mobility will have an expanded presence, including the first eVTOL aircraft in the Dubai Airshow flying display, with Joby Aviation’s model set to perform. “This milestone reflects Dubai’s ambition to lead in advanced air mobility and progressive regulatory frameworks,” said Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi, director general of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority.
Startups and youth focus
A new Inspiration Zone will host founders and early-stage companies, while the NextGen Leaders programme will highlight university research. Vista will return as the dedicated startup hub.
Sustainability will remain a central theme, with Sustainable Aviation Fuel for participating aircraft, electric and propane-powered ground operations in partnership with Jetex, and exhibition halls using renewable electricity.
The Better Stands Programme will promote reusable booth designs, while hydration stations and LEED-certified accommodation support broader environmental goals.
Night sessions and public displays
For the first time, the airshow will extend into evening hours with night-time networking events, including “Party on the Runway” at Skydive Dubai and “Airshow After Dark” with live entertainment and a drone show.
The public SkyView arena will host flying displays and family activities throughout the week, featuring aerobatic teams, meet-the-pilot sessions, food trucks and a new VIP viewing area.