Abu Dhabi: ADNEC Group has signed an agreement with Calidus, an Emirati company specialising in advanced defence design and manufacturing, to become the main sponsor of the International Defence Conference and Exhibition (IDEX) and Naval Defence and Maritime Security Exhibition (NAVDEX) 2025. The event will take place from 17th to 21st February at ADNEC Center Abu Dhabi, in strategic collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and the Tawazun Council.
According to Emirates News Agency, IDEX and NAVDEX are prominent global platforms for showcasing technological innovations and promoting collaboration in the defence and security sectors. These exhibitions strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a key global hub for defence and advanced technology. They will bring together senior industry leaders, decision-makers, and experts from around the world to explore the latest developments in military technologies and work towards global security and stability.
Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC, stated that the collaboration with Calidus as a Principal Sponsor reflects a commitment to supporting innovation and leadership in the defence industry. The shared goal is to establish Abu Dhabi as a global centre of excellence in defence and security, in line with the UAE’s long-term strategic vision.
Dr. Khalifa Murad Alblooshi, CEO of Calidus, expressed pride in participating as a Principal Sponsor of IDEX and NAVDEX 2025. He highlighted the company’s plan to showcase eight new products, reflecting a decade of excellence and innovation in the national defence industry. This year, Calidus will have its largest participation in the exhibition’s history, with a doubling of its exhibition space compared to 2023.
Dr. Alblooshi emphasized that all Calidus products and innovations are 100 per cent Emirati, aligned with a commitment to supporting national talent and developing Emirati cadres through advanced training programmes. He mentioned that this aligns with the leadership’s vision to strengthen national capabilities and prepare a distinguished generation of innovators.
During the event, Calidus will introduce a new brand identity, showcasing its ambition to develop advanced defence technologies for regional and global needs. Based in Abu Dhabi, Calidus specialises in air and land defence industries, offering innovative solutions to customers worldwide.
The IDEX and NAVDEX exhibitions will reinforce Abu Dhabi and the UAE’s position as a regional and global defence hub. The 2025 edition is expected to see record-breaking exhibition space and participation, with a focus on promoting innovative military solutions locally and globally.