Sheikh Mohammed tours largest-ever Dubai Airshow 2025, explores next-gen Chinese aircraft
Over 200 aircraft displayed, including commercial, military, and private jets
DUBAI – His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, visited Dubai Airshow 2025 at Dubai World Central (DWC) on Monday.
Accompanied by Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Dubai Ruler toured the exhibition area, witnessing the latest advancements in aviation, defence, and aerospace.
The event, held from 17-21 November, is the largest edition to date, attracting major industry players from across the globe.
Innovation and leadership
During his visit, Sheikh Mohammed explored new civil and military aircraft projects alongside 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. He commended the UAE’s strides in research and innovation, emphasising the nation’s position as a leading aviation hub.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed highlighted that sustained leadership in the sector depends on nurturing partnerships with global aviation leaders and developing competitive national talent. He added that Dubai will continue investing in smart infrastructure and advanced airports to remain prepared for future challenges.
Aircraft and technology
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed visited key pavilions showcasing the latest in commercial and military aircraft, sustainable aviation technologies, air mobility solutions, and defence systems. Notably, he viewed the Chinese C919 passenger aircraft, marking its Middle East debut.
Developed by COMAC, the 192-seat aircraft offers competitive fuel efficiency and operational performance, signalling China’s entry into the commercial aviation market. The visit also included the CATIC pavilion, highlighting China-UAE collaboration; Strata–Mubadala, featuring UAE aircraft components; EDGE, demonstrating advanced defence technologies; and LODD and Dubai South pavilions.
Global participation
This year’s edition hosts over 1,500 exhibitors, including 440 newcomers, 148,000 trade visitors, and 490 military and civil delegations from 115 countries. The event features 21 country pavilions, including Morocco’s debut, alongside 98 chalets, 8,000 square metres of additional exhibition space, 120 start-ups, and 50 investors. Over 200 aircraft, comprising commercial jets, military planes, private jets, UAVs, and next-generation technologies, are displayed across flying and static exhibitions, marking the largest show in Dubai Airshow history.
Sheikh Mohammed emphasised that Dubai Airshow serves as a platform for innovations and expertise shaping the aviation and aerospace sectors. He highlighted the UAE’s commitment to developing these industries as key economic drivers and integral elements of its knowledge- and technology-driven vision, reinforcing the nation’s ambition to lead globally in aviation, defence, and space technologies.