With six weeks to go until the 10th Anniversary edition of the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX 2011), preparations are intensifying at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), as the venue gets ready to stage one of the region’s most important events.
ADNEC, which is already the largest exhibition centre in the Gulf, has undergone a number of new developments since the 9th edition of IDEX in which was held in February 2009. Facilities such as the award winning Aloft Abu Dhabi Hotel did not exist in 2009, but will now play a key role in the event’s success by offering more than 400 on-site hotel rooms.
The historic ADNEC Grandstand, a 30 year old city land-mark and an integral element in the IDEX Opening Ceremony, has been significantly enhanced for the 10th anniversary edition of the event. The development of a brand new Royal Box, a striking new canopy which arches over the Grandstand before climbing Capital Gate Tower, and a brand new tiered-seating system designed to create a comfortable spectator experience are all nearing completion.
The ADNEC Grandstand display area which is located directly in front of the Grandstand has undergone significant development to create a permanently expanded parade area which will be used during IDEX 2011 and at subsequent ADNEC events.
Commenting on the developments, H.E. Ali Bin Harmal, Managing Director of ADNEC said, "IDEX is the most important event in ADNEC’s calendar and is one of the most significant events for the UAE.  The show provides the opportunity for the nation to showcase its abilities to the wider world and ADNEC is honored to be able to play its part in the event’s success.  Over the last two years we have continued to invest in our facilities and infrastructure to ensure that IDEX 2011, the tenth anniversary event, is a huge success."
IDEX 2011 and the Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX 2011) will take place under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, from 20 – 24th February. Organized by ADNEC in association with the UAE Armed Forces GHQ, IDEX 2011 and NAVDEX 2011 are expected to showcase the latest equipment, services and technology for land, sea and ground-to-air systems, with more than 900 exhibitors and 50,000+ visitors expected to attend.