UAE strengthens aviation leadership as Dubai Airshow 2025 opens registration

Dubai Airshow has officially opened registration for its 19th edition, scheduled to take place from November 17 to 21 at Dubai World Central, WAM reported.

This year’s show is set to highlight advancements in aviation and defense innovation, aiming to drive industry-wide transformation.

Positioned as one of the most significant global gatherings in aerospace, the event will spotlight advanced technologies, drive cross-industry collaboration, and align with the UAE’s forward-looking vision for aviation growth. The program aims to enhance global engagement while reinforcing the country’s role as a hub for cutting-edge aviation and defense solutions.

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), aviation contributes an impressive $92 billion—18.2%—to the UAE’s GDP. With the Middle East’s commercial aircraft fleet projected to grow by 5.1% annually over the next ten years, Dubai Airshow 2025 arrives at a crucial moment for regional and global aviation.

Major General Dr. Mubarak Saeed bin Ghafan Al Jabri, Executive Director of the event’s organizing Military Committee, highlighted the UAE’s leadership role in the aviation and defense landscape. “The Ministry of Defense remains focused on fostering innovation and building next-generation capabilities to strengthen our position globally,” he said.

A standout feature this year is a unique networking event hosted directly on the runway at SkyDive Dubai, designed to bring together top industry figures in a relaxed, high-profile setting. Guests can expect skydiving shows, drone displays, live DJ performances, and upscale hospitality.

For the first time, the Airshow will also feature evening programming on its second day, extending hours until 9 p.m. This new element allows attendees to explore static aircraft exhibits, attend twilight receptions, and enjoy drone performances under the night sky.

Innovation and sustainability remain core themes across the event. The 2025 edition will continue to champion emerging ideas and green technologies as the industry advances toward more efficient and environmentally responsible solutions.

Several key initiatives will return, including VISTA, the leading hub for aviation and space start-ups, as well as the NextGen Leaders program. A new addition this year, the Academy, aims to equip young professionals with critical skills and industry guidance.

Curated networking forums will also be featured, including the Aerospace Executive Club, where senior leaders will explore trends and partnerships. The show’s powerful delegation program, hosted in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Defence, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, and the Government of Dubai, will leverage AI-driven matchmaking through the official event app to connect global stakeholders.

Timothy Hawes, Managing Director of Informa Markets, described the 2025 show as the most ambitious to date. “Dubai Airshow has always been about advancing the aviation and defense industries,” he said. “This edition will offer unmatched opportunities for showcasing innovations, forging connections, and supporting the region’s bold growth agenda.”

He also underscored the show’s growing focus on youth engagement, with expanded initiatives aimed at inspiring the next wave of aviation leaders through education and skill-building.

Meanwhile, Skyview -- the UAE’s only public platform of its kind -- will once again open its gates to over 15,000 visitors, offering front-row access to aerial displays, immersive experiences, and family-friendly entertainment over the five-day event.