UMEX 2026 And SimTEX 2026 Exhibitions To Be Hosted In Abu Dhabi In January

UMEX 2026 and SimTEX 2026 are set to return to Abu Dhabi as major global gatherings for unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, simulation and training technologies. The seventh editions will run at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from 20-22 January 2026, drawing civilian, commercial and defence stakeholders from around the world for exhibitions, discussions and networking.

The events take place under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs and Chairman of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC). Organised by ADNEC Group in cooperation with the Ministry of Defence, both exhibitions aim to highlight future technologies and advanced industrial capabilities.

The 2026 cycle will represent the largest expansion since UMEX and SimTEX became stand-alone events, separate from the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) in 2015. Organisers expect record participation by government bodies, private companies, research institutions and specialist centres working in robotics, unmanned aerial vehicles, smart control systems, simulation platforms and artificial intelligence applications.

Exhibitors will span national and international firms alongside academic and technical centres focused on training solutions and digital twins. Participation will cover both defence and non-defence fields, including industrial automation and commercial uses of unmanned systems. This broad mix is designed to support knowledge exchange, partnerships and the demonstration of new operational concepts in one location.

Brigadier General Mohammed Obaid Al Marshoudi, Chairman of the Organising Committee of UMEX and SimTEX 2026, said, "The two exhibitions represent a significant opportunity to advance industries related to unmanned systems, which are among the most influential technologies shaping the future of global industries. The 2026 edition reinforces the UAE’s role in supporting national companies by enabling them to showcase innovative solutions capable of competing globally, while providing an interactive environment that brings together partners and experts to accelerate the growth of this top-priority sector.

"The UAE’s strategic partnerships with leading global companies contribute to driving innovation and strengthening our position as an international hub for the development of unmanned systems, simulation, and training technologies, which have become key components of industrial and technological transformation worldwide."

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group, said, "ADNEC Group has completed all organisational and logistical preparations to deliver an exceptional edition that reflects Abu Dhabi’s capabilities in hosting and organising major specialised international exhibitions. Our teams are implementing the highest international standards to ensure a distinctive experience for exhibitors and visitors, while highlighting the pivotal role of UMEX and SimTEX in supporting industries related to unmanned systems, simulation, and training.

"This event represents an important platform for enhancing Abu Dhabi’s attractiveness as a global destination for investment in advanced technologies. It brings together leading international companies and research entities, contributing to the attraction of capital and expertise that support the rapid growth of this vital sector. The significant expansion of the 7th edition reflects global confidence in ADNEC Group’s exhibition ecosystem and underscores the UAE’s growing role in leading innovation in autonomous technologies and their wide-ranging applications."

UMEX 2026 and SimTEX 2026 unmanned systems dates, venue and programme

The schedule and venue for UMEX 2026 and SimTEX 2026 remain central to planning by industry participants. The three-day programme at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi will combine exhibitions, live demonstrations and conference sessions focused on practical and strategic aspects of unmanned and autonomous systems.

The UMEX 2026 Conference will gather international speakers, policymakers and technical specialists. Sessions will address developments in autonomous systems, particularly how artificial intelligence is integrated into platforms used for transport, logistics, energy and industrial operations. Civilian and commercial applications will feature alongside defence-related themes, providing a cross-sector view of current capabilities and future directions.

UMEX 2026 and SimTEX 2026 unmanned systems investment and innovation

ADNEC Group, working with the Ministry of Defence and other partners, aims to use UMEX 2026 and SimTEX 2026 to link advanced technology with practical investment opportunities. The exhibitions support the UAE’s 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR) ambitions by encouraging the adoption of smart solutions across civilian, industrial and commercial sectors, in line with national innovation and economic diversification objectives.

Organisers highlight that the two events are expected to attract senior officials, decision-makers and industry experts from multiple regions. Their presence is anticipated to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position as a centre for future technologies, while aligning with the UAE’s plans to build a knowledge-based economy supported by high-value, technology-driven industries and advanced digital infrastructure.

The launch of the largest editions of UMEX and SimTEX is viewed as another step in consolidating the UAE’s role within the global unmanned systems landscape. The exhibitions are designed to back industrial growth, enable deeper international cooperation in autonomous and simulation technologies, and open pathways for UAE companies to enter new markets through partnerships, research collaboration and access to specialist expertise.

With inputs from WAM