The Dubai Airshow 2025, scheduled for November 17 to 21, highlights a significant shift in Middle Eastern defense procurement, emphasizing diversification beyond traditional Western suppliers. With a projected market value of $171 billion for fixed-wing aircraft and drones, regional nations are modernizing their air defense capabilities, spending $74 billion over the next decade. While maintaining ties with US and European defense firms, they are increasingly looking towards offerings from Turkey and South Korea, as exemplified by Russia debuting its Su-57E fifth-generation fighter jet. This evolving landscape not only enhances operational capabilities and strategic autonomy but also fosters defense industrial partnerships and technology transfer, reflecting the region’s commitment to long-term security and geopolitical interests.