Abu dhabi: The Unmanned Systems Exhibition (UMEX) and Simulation and Training Exhibition (SimTEX) opened on Tuesday at the ADNEC Centre, Abu Dhabi, and will run until 22nd January. These exhibitions are the first of their kind in the Middle East, dedicated to unmanned systems, robotics, simulation, and training technologies.
According to Emirates News Agency, UMEX and SimTEX 2026 have experienced unprecedented growth in both participation and scope, with a specific focus on the applications of these technologies across the commercial, civil, and defence sectors. The seventh edition brings together distinguished local and global experts, alongside leading national and international companies, highlighting the UAE’s advancements in unmanned systems, AI, simulation, and training. It also underscores the growing civil and commercial applications of these technologies and the dynamic growth of national industries in this strategic sector.
This year’s edition is notable for achieving record growth rates across all performance indicators, marking it as the largest iteration in the exhibitions’ history since their inception in 2015. The total exhibition area has expanded by 34 percent to reach 40,322 square metres compared to the previous edition in 2024. Additionally, the number of participating companies and brands has surged to 375, a 74 percent increase from the previous edition. The number of participating countries also increased by 9 percent, reaching 38, including 10 countries participating for the first time.
The UAE pavilion is the largest in terms of space, followed by China and the US. National companies account for 45 percent of exhibitors, with international firms making up 55 percent. This growth underscores the significant role of these events in supporting national industry development, enhancing global competitiveness, facilitating access to international markets, fostering strategic partnerships, and localising knowledge.
