In February 2025, the United Arab Emirates will host a series of significant conferences, exhibitions, and events that underscore its vital role in shaping various sectors globally and regionally. These events are expected to attract extensive regional and international participation, further solidifying the UAE’s reputation as a premier destination for business tourism and conferences.

Among the prominent events are the 2025 editions of the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) and the Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX), scheduled from 17th to 21st February at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). These exhibitions will showcase innovative solutions across 17 key sectors, including land systems, air systems, unmanned systems, and maritime technologies. They aim to highlight advancements in smart mobility and autonomous operations, as well as the technological capabilities of navigation systems, radar systems, and command and control technologies that are fundamentally changing modern defence strategies.

Additionally, Abu Dhabi will host the “ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium (GISS) 2025,” organized by the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). This significant international event will take place from 10th to 12th February, featuring a related exhibition and the launch of the first edition of the “Global Sustainable Aviation Marketplace (GSAM).” The symposium expects participation from over 1,500 attendees representing the 193 ICAO member states.

The 2nd International Dialogue of Civilisations & Tolerance Conference will also commence in Abu Dhabi, focusing on youth empowerment in promoting tolerance. This conference will feature over 100 speakers from various sectors and countries, alongside 25 interactive workshops, with expectations of attracting more than 5,000 participants.

In Dubai, the 12th edition of the World Governments Summit will occur from 11th to 13th February 2025. This summit will see participation from over 30 heads of state and government, more than 80 international and regional organizations, 140 government delegations, and around 6,000 participants. The summit will include 21 global forums discussing major future trends and transformations, with more than 200 interactive sessions, 300 global speakers, 30 roundtable discussions, and the participation of over 400 ministers. Furthermore, the summit is set to release 30 strategic reports.

The 29th edition of the UAE International Dental Conference & Arab Dental Exhibition (AEEDC Dubai 2025) is scheduled for 4th to 6th February 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. This key regional event is anticipated to attract over 66,000 visitors and participants from 155 countries, featuring 5,300 brands from more than 3,900 global companies specializing in dental supplies.

On 1st and 2nd February, the 8th edition of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival will take place at the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park (SRTIP). The festival is set to feature over 300 speakers from 45 countries, 150 startups, and 250 activities across 10 areas and 5 platforms, including 45 workshops and 320 meetings with investors.

Additionally, the 9th edition of Xposure International Photography Festival will occur from 20th to 26th February at its new venue in Aljada, Sharjah. This festival will celebrate visual storytelling, showcasing over 420 photographers, filmmakers, and creatives with 3,100 artworks. The week-long event will include 349 activities, such as exhibitions, workshops by experts, portfolio reviews, and the screening of 58 films that reflect global diversity and artistic excellence.

Lastly, the 22nd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days will be organized by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage from 12th to 23rd February. This cultural event will feature participation from over 26 countries, including members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and various Arab and foreign nations.