Focused on defense, commercial, and dual-use applications for unmanned systems, UMEX 2026 will bring together global innovators, military officials, and decision-makers to explore the evolving role of autonomy in security and operations.
Attendees can expect live demonstrations, hands-on showcases, and a full spectrum of autonomous technologies. With dedicated defense and commercial zones, UMEX 2026 offers a platform to examine the latest in robotics, AI-driven systems, and mission-critical applications that support military readiness and industrial transformation.
When is UMEX 2026
UMEX 2026 takes place from January 20 to 22, 2026 at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
UMEX 2026 Themes
UMEX 2026 highlights both defense and commercial domains of unmanned systems:
UMEX Defence Zone
Military and defense professionals will engage with the latest in autonomous platforms, ISR systems, AI-driven robotics, and next-generation defense technologies. The Defence Zone features displays and demonstrations relevant to mission readiness, operational advantage, and national security.
UMEX Commercial Zone
This area focuses on autonomy in sectors like logistics, agriculture, energy, public safety, and urban infrastructure. Exhibitors and innovators will showcase applications shaping smart cities and future industries.
What’s On at UMEX 2026?
UMEX 2026 features a broad range of interactive sessions and showcases:
Exhibition Hall
Leading companies will present autonomous systems, AI innovations, and technologies reshaping defense and commercial operations.
A2RL Drone Challenge – Season 2
Top international AI teams return to compete in autonomous flight, pushing the boundaries of drone performance and navigation.
MoD Coding Challenge
Open to all visitors, this competition challenges participants to solve real-world defense technology problems with speed and creativity.
Autonomous Global 100
A curated showcase of leading innovators in unmanned systems and intelligent defense solutions.
Live Demonstrations
Attendees can see operational systems in action, with live displays of the latest autonomous technologies in real-world scenarios.
UMEX 2026 Speakers
UMEX 2026 will feature global leaders in defense, autonomy, and innovation, including:
- Dr. Stacey MacAllister, Vice President of Autonomy, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.
- Khaled Al Zaabi, President, Platforms & Systems Cluster, EDGE
- Haluk Bayraktar, CEO, Baykar
- Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO, Technology Innovation Institute
- H.E. Ahmad Ali Belqaizi, Executive Director – Aviation Safety & Environment Sector, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority
- Manuel Cutrin Dominguez, CEO, ISDEFE
- Mr. Stephane Timpano, CEO, ASPIRE
- Mr. Waleed Alblooshi, Vice President of Strategy, K2
- Mr. James Acuna, Managing Director, Ondas Capital
- Prof. Hyunchul Shim, Professor, KAIST
- Prof. Marko Bertogna, Full Professor, UNIMORE
Where is UMEX 2026 Being Held?
ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
To learn more about UMEX 2026, to register to attend or exhibit, please click below .
