Dubai: A wide range of cutting-edge Air Traffic Management (ATM) and Air Traffic Control (ATC) solutions for the Air Navigation Services Providers (ANSPs) and airport operators will be showcased at the 25th edition of the Airport Show at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 12th to 14th May, 2026.
According to Emirates News Agency, more than 150 exhibitors from over 30 countries are set to participate in the landmark show, which is expected to attract more than 7,000 visitors from over 30 countries during its three-day run, in addition to 120 hosted buyers. The event will be held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group. The show will feature co-located conferences such as the Global Airport Leaders' Forum (GALF), Airport Security Middle East, Air Traffic Control (ATC) Forum, and Women in Aviation (WIA) Middle East Conference.
Exhibiting and supporting the airport industry's leading B2B platform will be Dubai Air Navigation Services (dans), the Air Navigation Services Provider (ANSP) at the UAE's four airports, including DXB, the world's busiest airport for international passengers since 2014. The event will also highlight the operator of the world's largest 360-degree tower simulator.
The digital transformation in the aviation industry is aiding airports in reducing flight delays, enabling smoother travel, and improving the passenger experience. Supported by robust cloud architecture and underpinned by strong cybersecurity measures, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been transforming ATC, particularly in predictive maintenance and resource allocation. AI and Machine Learning (ML) are also playing a fundamental role in the development of the new ATM/UTM space, optimizing flight paths in real-time, adjusting routes to avoid congestion, and ensuring efficient airspace usage.
The global ATM market size is projected to reach US$10.96 billion in 2026 and US$21.24 billion by 2034. Global air traffic is expected to reach 9.7 billion passengers annually by 2030, placing enormous pressure on ATM infrastructure. Furthermore, the global commercial aviation fleet is anticipated to consist of over 36,000 aircraft by 2033, up from over 22,000 currently, according to an analysis by Oliver Wyman.