The 19th edition of Dubai Airshow – a meeting point for Aerospace, Space And Defense Ecosystem – hosted over 1,500 exhibitors (21 country pavilions), 148,000+ attendees, 200+ aircrafts on display (ranging from commercial jets and private planes to advanced military assets, UAVs, eVTOL aircraft) including start-ups and 40 Indian exhibitors, reports our Editor, Chandragupta Amritkar

The largest ever edition of Dubai Airshow under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, VP and PM of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai opened with 8,000 square meters of new exhibition space to accommodate demand, industry leaders are convening in Dubai to define the future of aerospace, space, and defence. From major fleet expansions to cutting-edge technology showcases, the event delivered defining moments that propel aerospace forward.

Tim Hawes, MD, Informa Markets said: “Dubai Airshow 2025 opened with an electrifying start, showcasing the remarkable growth and cutting-edge innovation driving the aerospace industry forward. This year’s edition is our most ambitious yet, offering a global platform for next-generation technologies that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and advanced mobility. Day one delivered major orders, and we expect even more transformative announcements in the coming days as industry leaders gather in Dubai to shape the future of aerospace.”

EDGE Group utilised the platform as an opportunity to launch 42 new products and solutions, delivering one of the most ambitious launches in its history. EDGE Group has also signed numerous agreements, including MoU’s with Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) to explore future collaboration across aerospace, defence, and related high-technology sectors, as well as with L3Harris Technologies to develop innovative solutions that will contribute to the UAE’s growing defense capabilities.

Tawazun Council, representing the UAE Ministry of Defence and Abu Dhabi Police, announced 20 major contracts totaling AED 18.016 billion during the first three days of Dubai Airshow 2025. These agreements, signed with leading local and international industry players, underscore the UAE’s commitment to strengthening its defence ecosystem and fostering private-sector participation in developing innovative, sustainable solutions for the future of national security.

Manea Al Mansoori, official spokesperson of Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement, said: “These agreements with national and international companies operating in the defence, security and aviation sectors play a vital role in strengthening the UAE’s defence and security industrial ecosystem. The contracts support the country’s strategic objectives in technology transfer, localisation and industrial advancement, reinforcing our commitment to innovation and sustainable growth.”

Airbus had a great outing with adding new customers, partnerships and collaborations. Gabriel Semelas, President, Airbus Africa and Middle East, comments: “Dubai Airshow is always an exceptional platform for industry innovation and collaboration, uniting the pioneers shaping the future of aerospace. This year continued that momentum, and we’re proud to have signed landmark agreements – such as welcoming flydubai and Buraq Air as new customers and seeing Etihad Airways become the latest A330neo customer, while expanding its A350 fleet.”

“We also secured new partnerships and extended our long-standing collaborations with Strata and Mubadala, reflecting the UAE’s growing role in the global aerospace supply chain. As the Middle East continues to witness major growth and investment, the Airshow remains the ideal place to see this transformation in action.”

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline said that Emirates airline would be more than happy to add more seats to Indian destinations.

The General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) – Dubai issued a special stamp on the passports of participating delegates and visitors from abroad to Dubai Airshow 2025. The stamp carries the visual identity of the Dubai Airshow. Lt General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, GDRFA director general, said on Tuesday, “The Dubai Airshow is a global platform that attracts experts and decision-makers from various countries, and through this stamp, we aim to reinforce the image of the UAE and enhance the welcoming experience that Dubai provides during the event.”

This year night sessions were introduced featuring a Drone Show and Airshow After Dark. The other point of interest was the Space Pavilion along with a two-day Space Conference.

Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Pavilion

AAM took centre stage as visitors chance to explore electric aircraft and the future of urban transportation. For the first time, eVTOL aircraft — electric vertical take-off and landing models were on flying display. There were 4 eVTOL models that could redefine urban travel. The eVTOL flying display was led by Joby Aviation’s revolutionary aircraft. The first eVTOL is scheduled to be launched for commercial passengers to travel within Dubai city by Dec 2026.

And probably it’s the next revolution in travel and hospitality industry as well as for the business community to solve travel woes. For hospitals it can be a boon and a big relief for patients and their relatives.