Abu Dhabi, Nov 17 (IANS/WAM): The International Defence Exhibition and conference (IDEX) is participating in the 13th edition of the Dubai Air Show being held Nov 17-21 at Dubai World Centre (DWC), Jebel Ali, Dubai.

Set to be the largest edition in the show's 26-year history, IDEX will have an official stand located at main hall.

"As the world's leading defence dedicated exhibition, participating in this year's Dubai Airshow was a priority and we look forward to our involvement with great promise," said Saleh Al Marzooqi, chief executive officer of IDEX.

"The global exposure this event creates for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is of immense value and provides a platform for us to establish and strengthen relationships with government departments and businesses from all over the world,” he said.

The Middle East aerospace industry is currently experiencing positive growth with recent estimates suggesting that $400 billion is expected to be invested in Middle East airlines and airports in the near future.

The regional military air market is forecast to generate $62.9 billion by 2020 and the output of IDEX 2015 taking place Feb 22-26, 2015, is set to increase the strong positioning of the UAE in the global defence marketplace.

IDEX 2013 was the largest event in its two decade history with 80,000 visitors attending the event where 1,112 exhibiting companies were hosted from 59 countries.