Why it matters
SADEX is the primary gateway for international UAS suppliers seeking access to the fast-growing Saudi and Gulf drone market, where government mega-projects (NEOM, Vision 2030 logistics corridors) are generating substantial procurement demand. The previous edition facilitated SAR 1.5 billion in signed business agreements, making it a high-conversion commercial event rather than a purely promotional one. For SMEs and startups, the structured B2B matchmaking and direct access to Saudi government buyers, regulators (GACA), and sovereign-fund-backed investors represent a rare entry point into a market with significant localization incentives.
About
SADEX is the Kingdom's leading Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) exhibition and conference, held annually in Riyadh and dedicated to drone technology, autonomous systems, and AI integration across civil, commercial, and security domains. The 2026 edition is part of Saudi Autonomous Week, co-located with the Saudi UGV Exhibition and the Maritime Autonomous Vehicles Exhibition (MAVEX), forming the region's broadest autonomous-systems platform. The event combines a trade exhibition, a structured B2B matchmaking programme, live drone demonstrations, and the UAS International Conference 2026, themed 'Autonomy, AI and UAV Ecosystems: Transforming Skies, Expanding Potentials.' It is held under the patronage of the Saudi Ministry of Transportation and Logistic Services and supported by the World UAV Federation.
Market intel
Moderate pricingmedium confidence
SADEX has grown rapidly since its 2023 launch, doubling floor space and nearly doubling visitor numbers between its first and second editions. The 2025 edition drew 110+ exhibitors and over 14,600 visitors, with the 2024 edition generating SAR 1.5 billion in signed agreements. The 2026 edition, co-located within Saudi Autonomous Week alongside UGV and maritime autonomous vehicle shows, targets 250+ exhibitors and 20,000+ visitors across 14,000 sqm.
Notable exhibitorsWing Loong (AVIC)FlyNow ArabiaFALCONVIZBCN Drone CenterADREKTassami Co
AI-researched Wed, 2 September 2026. Estimates from public sources. Verify with the organizer.
Topics
UAS / DronesAutonomy & RoboticsAIC-UASISR & Sensors
Who it's for
PrimesSMEsStartupsInvestorsInstitutions