Dubai is set to host the 25th edition of Airport Show from May 12 to 14 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, reaffirming its position as a leading global hub for aviation innovation. Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, the event stands as one of the most influential gatherings in the airport industry.
The exhibition provides a strategic platform for airport leaders, security specialists, and technology providers to explore next-generation solutions designed to enhance airport infrastructure, operational efficiency, and passenger safety.
Specialized Conferences and Forward-Looking Insights
Running alongside the exhibition are several high-level conferences, including the Global Airport Leaders’ Forum, the Airport Security Middle East Conference, the Air Traffic Control Forum, and the Women in Aviation – Middle East Conference. These forums will address key industry challenges, emerging threats, and the integration of advanced technologies into airport ecosystems.
More than 150 exhibitors from over 30 countries are expected to participate, alongside more than 7,000 visitors and 120 hosted buyers. The scale of participation highlights the show’s growing importance as a central marketplace for partnerships, innovation, and major aviation deals.
Direct Access to Decision-Makers
Airport Show offers exhibitors direct engagement with decision-makers from the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia—regions investing billions of dollars in airport modernization and expansion projects to strengthen their position as global aviation hubs.
Through the Hosted Buyers Program, companies gain exclusive meeting opportunities with senior airport executives from around the world, opening the door to potential agreements for supplying advanced security systems, operational technologies, and infrastructure solutions.
A Proactive Approach to Aviation Security
Brigadier Engineer Expert Marwan Senkal, Assistant Director General of the General Department of Airport Security, emphasized that Dubai adopts a proactive approach to ensuring safe and seamless travel by integrating advanced technologies into its security ecosystem. This strategy enhances operational efficiency while maintaining the highest security standards.
He noted that UAE authorities continue to deploy advanced screening technologies for passengers, baggage, and cargo, achieving a careful balance between high-level threat detection and a smooth passenger experience.
CT Scanners and Artificial Intelligence Lead the Way
Airport security is undergoing a significant transformation with the growing adoption of computed tomography (CT) scanners, which offer more advanced imaging capabilities than traditional X-ray machines. Several countries have already begun implementing this technology, with the European Union moving toward mandatory deployment at airports by 2026.
Across the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia, airports are also accelerating the use of artificial intelligence to forecast security demand, optimize staffing, and create digital twins that simulate operational and security scenarios. These innovations improve preparedness and enable faster, data-driven decision-making.
Strong Market Growth and Strategic Investments
Market research indicates that the global airport security market is projected to exceed $38 billion by 2035. In the UAE alone, the airport security sector is expected to reach approximately $3.2 billion by 2030, driven by rising passenger traffic, technological innovation, and significant infrastructure investments.
Airports are increasingly adopting modular security frameworks that allow phased upgrades instead of large-scale one-time overhauls. This flexible approach ensures continuous modernization without disrupting day-to-day operations.
Adapting to a Rapidly Changing Landscape
As security threats evolve and passenger expectations shift toward faster, frictionless journeys, airport security systems must continuously adapt. Airport Show Dubai 2026 serves as a vital platform for industry leaders to collaborate, exchange insights, and shape a future where air travel is not only safer but also smarter and more efficient.
