UMEX And SimTEX 2026 To Attract Over 700 International Defence Leaders

ADNEC Group, part of Modon, is preparing Abu Dhabi for the largest UMEX and SimTEX yet. The unmanned systems and training exhibitions run from 20th to 22nd January 2026, following the International Defence Conference on 19th January, which will focus on intelligent autonomy in defence operations and policy.

The 2026 UMEX and SimTEX edition is described as the biggest in scale and scope so far. ADNEC Group expects record participation from international organisations, government bodies, private companies and research centres. The twin events have become a global reference point for unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, simulation and training technologies.

IDC is positioned as a leading international meeting place for defence and security decision-makers. The conference brings together senior officials and technical experts to examine challenges and opportunities shaping the future of defence. Discussions focus on practical applications, regulatory questions and long-term planning for autonomous capabilities.

IDC will run under the theme "Smart Horizons: Redefining Defence Through Intelligent Autonomy," linking all sessions. The agenda highlights modern defence digital command networks, the integration of autonomous systems into operations, and the creation of shared global standards. The programme also looks at how trust, ethics and governance guide international collaboration on autonomy.

Organisers expect more than 700 international defence leaders, military attaches and visiting delegations to attend IDC. Participants will network with industry specialists, technology suppliers and researchers. They will also hear global experts across three detailed panel discussions and review current strategies and systems that are reshaping defence planning worldwide.

Following IDC on 19th January, UMEX and SimTEX will open from 20th to 22nd January. The exhibitions will feature commercial, civilian and defence solutions. Technologies on display include advanced UAVs, land and maritime autonomous vehicles, immersive simulators and AI-based training platforms built for complex mission environments.

The event will also highlight how unmanned systems and AI tools support non-military sectors. Exhibits and demonstrations will show potential uses in smart agriculture, healthcare delivery, logistics networks and infrastructure management. These applications are presented as part of long-term digital transformation plans across industries in the region and globally.

The expanded exhibition area and added programme features match Abu Dhabi’s strategy for innovation and business tourism. ADNEC Group aims to position the emirate as a global meeting point for advanced defence and technology industries. The larger layout also allows more space for live demonstrations, product displays and technical briefings.

New and returning features are planned to enhance engagement for visitors and exhibitors. The Autonomous Racing League Drone Championship will showcase competitive unmanned flight. Live trials at Tilal Swaihan and ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi will demonstrate how autonomous platforms behave in realistic conditions, including surveillance, logistics and emergency support roles.

Dedicated Commercial and Defence Zones will offer space for start-ups, established firms and research teams to share projects. Expanded sector coverage is designed to support emerging talent and next-generation solutions. Together, IDC, UMEX and SimTEX will present an integrated view of intelligent autonomy and unmanned systems development from Abu Dhabi to international audiences.

With inputs from WAM