Airports across the globe—particularly in the Middle East—are making significant investments in advanced technologies as they expand capacity and modernize infrastructure to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving aviation landscape.
As airports transition into multimodal mobility hubs, they are integrating digital platforms to hyper-personalize passenger experiences while deploying next-generation technologies across processing and security systems, baggage handling, and flight information displays. The growing adoption of AI-driven analytics, biometric identification, and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions is enabling airports to scale operations efficiently, manage rising passenger volumes, and address increasing operational complexity.
Aviation technology leader SITA emphasizes that future success in the sector hinges on the widespread adoption of artificial intelligence, machine learning, automation, and biometrics. The shift toward smart airports and digitalization is already helping operators future-proof their operations. The global smart airport market is projected to reach US$24.3 billion by 2032, while the Middle East alone is expected to attract US$30 billion in smart airport investments, according to Ken Research.
Against this backdrop, the 25th edition of the Airport Show, one of the world’s largest B2B platforms for the airport industry, will take place from May 12 to 14, 2026, at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). The event will showcase the latest and upcoming technologies shaping the entire airport ecosystem.
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 Airport Show will bring together more than 120 buyers from over 50 airports and aviation authorities across 30+ countries. The three-day exhibition will feature 150+ global exhibitors, offering a comprehensive view of cutting-edge airport solutions.
Strong Deal-Making and Networking Opportunities
The Airport Show presents a strategic platform for global and regional exhibitors to engage directly with decision-makers from the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. Participants will have the opportunity to explore business collaborations with airport CEOs and senior leaders from a region that, according to ACI World, is expected to invest US$240 billion between 2025 and 2035 in airport upgrades and new infrastructure.
Exhibitors can also benefit from the Hosted Buyers Program, designed to facilitate exclusive, pre-scheduled meetings with senior airport officials, enabling discussions around procurement, technology adoption, and future requirements.
By 2027, nearly 74% of airports worldwide are expected to deploy biometric self-boarding gates. Meanwhile, the Middle East continues to demonstrate strong aviation growth, recording a 28% increase in overall connectivity, compared to a global average of 14%. Both intra-regional and intercontinental connectivity in the region have surpassed pre-pandemic levels by 18% and 16%, respectively.
Knowledge Sharing and Industry Leadership
The Airport Show will be held alongside key co-located conferences, including the Global Airport Leaders’ Forum (GALF), Airport Security Middle East, ATC Forum, and the Women in Aviation (WIA) Middle East Forum, further strengthening its position as a hub for thought leadership and innovation.
May Ismail, Event Manager at RX Middle East, organizers of the Airport Show, said:
“Technology is no longer a collection of standalone tools—it forms the backbone of airport operations. As airports become smarter, greener, and more connected, their entire operational model is being reshaped.”
She added, “The airport of the future will be technologically advanced and passenger-centric, delivering seamless travel experiences. While the journey to becoming best-in-class is challenging, airports are clearly focused on strengthening their long-term prospects.”
According to a joint report by Oliver Wyman, ACI World, and the Sustainable Tourism Global Centre, rapid advances in biometrics, AI, machine learning, automation, and even 3D printing will disrupt traditional airport operating models. Future passenger journeys are expected to be customized, on-demand, contactless, and highly efficient.
By 2030, the use of AI and biometric data to enable secure and seamless travel is expected to become standard—well before global air passenger traffic approaches the 10-billion mark. With continued growth in passenger and cargo volumes, flight frequencies, and global connectivity, industry stakeholders increasingly view the Airport Show as a trusted platform to explore and source the latest airport technologies directly from global innovators.
