Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
XPONENTIAL 2027 is the leading global conference and exhibition for autonomy and robotics, uniting industry leaders and end users to explore innovations in uncrewed systems. Scheduled for May 17 to 20, 2027, at the Miami Beach Convention Center, the event will feature a comprehensive program including educational sessions, networking opportunities, and an expansive exhibit hall showcasing the latest technologies.
XPONENTIAL takes place in Miami, USA. Venue: Miami Beach Convention Center.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: May 2027 at Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami Beach, Florida; confirm exact show dates and hall hours on xponential.org.
- 2Organiser and Brand: AUVSI XPONENTIAL 2027, organised by AUVSI with Messe Düsseldorf North America.
- 3Sector Scope: uncrewed aerial, ground and maritime platforms, autonomy software, sensors, payloads, counter-UAS, test ranges and launch services.
- 4Buyer Mix: defense, civil aviation, public safety, energy, agriculture, logistics, research labs and robotics integrators.
- 5Show Floor Focus: platform builders, component and sensor suppliers, software and autonomy stack providers, service firms and standards bodies meet across the exhibit hall and conference tracks.
Why visit
Attending XPONENTIAL 2027 provides access to cutting-edge technologies and insights from industry leaders. Dates and Venue: XPONENTIAL 2027 runs from May 17 to 20, 2027, at the Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami, USA. Scale and Focus: The event showcases the latest in uncrewed systems and robotics, attracting over 10,000 attendees and 600+ exhibitors. Buyer Authority: Attendees include industry leaders, technologists, and policymakers from various sectors.
Why exhibit
Exhibiting at XPONENTIAL 2027 offers unparalleled exposure to a diverse audience of decision-makers and industry professionals. Scale and Focus: The event showcases the latest in uncrewed systems and robotics, attracting over 10,000 attendees and 600+ exhibitors. Buyer Authority: Attendees include industry leaders, technologists, and policymakers from various sectors.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Industry professionals from uncrewed systems and robotics sectors
Government and military representatives
Academics and researchers in autonomous technology
Investors and venture capitalists in technology sectors
Policymakers and regulators in technology and defense
End users of autonomous systems across various industries
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Manufacturers of uncrewed vehicles and systems
Suppliers of robotics components and software
Service providers for autonomous technology integration
Defense contractors specializing in uncrewed systems
Startups focused on innovative autonomous solutions
Research institutions and universities showcasing advancements
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) and drones
Robotics for industrial applications
Autonomous ground vehicles
Software solutions for autonomous systems
Sensors and components for uncrewed technologies
Defense and security technologies
Location & Facilities
Venue
Miami Beach Convention Center
Miami, USA
Facilities
Parking
Miami Beach Convention Center in Miami typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: Miami Beach Convention Center in Miami typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at Miami Beach Convention Center for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Event days & opening times
DayOpening hours
May 17 to 20, 2027:10:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
Who runs the show
Organisers
Association for Uncrewed Vehicles Systems International (AUVSI)
Messe Düsseldorf North America (MDNA)
How the last edition performed
Previous edition
Next edition
Not announced yet
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Miami, USA
Why it matters
Attending XPONENTIAL on 2027-05-17 to 2027-05-20 in Miami lets buyers and specifiers benchmark suppliers, see live demonstrations, and compress months of vendor meetings into one focused trade visit — worthwhile when your category roadmap aligns with the official exhibitor profile.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Sustainability in procurement
What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Automation and labour efficiency
What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regional supply-chain resilience
What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Hybrid engagement models
What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · USD
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Miami International Airport
Primary gateway for Miami Beach. Take taxi, rideshare or Metrobus Route 150; allow extra time for causeway traffic during show days
approx. 12 mi / 19 km from Miami Beach Convention Center
to venue
approx. 25-40 min by road depending on traffic
by car
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport
Alternate South Florida gateway; compare fares against the longer transfer time and higher taxi or rideshare cost
approx. 25 mi / 40 km from Miami Beach Convention Center
to venue
approx. 40-55 min by road depending on traffic
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Riviera Hotel South Beach
4-star
South Beach, Miami Beachapprox. 290 m from Miami Beach Convention Center to venueWalkable to the convention center; confirm resort fees and parking charges.
Breakfast (paid), free Wi-Fi, parking (paid), outdoor pool, air conditioning, pet-friendly, bar, restaurant
Kasa El Paseo Miami Beach
4-star
South Beach, Miami Beachapprox. 880 m from Miami Beach Convention Center to venueApartment-style option about 10-12 min walk; confirm housekeeping and deposit terms.
Free Wi-Fi, parking (paid), air conditioning, pet-friendly, breakfast, kitchen in some rooms, business center
The Catalina Hotel & Beach Club
3-star
South Beach, Miami Beachapprox. 400 m from Miami Beach Convention Center to venueBudget-friendly South Beach base about 5-6 min walk; confirm room size and resort fees.
Breakfast (paid), free Wi-Fi, parking (paid), outdoor pool, air conditioning, pet-friendly, bar, restaurant
Pestana South Beach Miami
4-star
South Beach, Miami Beachapprox. 280 m from Miami Beach Convention Center to venueClose walk to the venue; confirm breakfast and parking charges.
Free Wi-Fi, parking (paid), outdoor pool, air conditioning, bar, accessible, kid-friendly, smoke-free property
Liberty Park Hotel
4-star
South Beach, Miami Beachapprox. 390 m from Miami Beach Convention Center to venueWalkable with pool and fitness center; confirm resort fees.
Breakfast (paid), free Wi-Fi, parking (paid), outdoor pool, hot tub, air conditioning, pet-friendly, fitness center
Lincoln Arms Suites
3-star
South Beach, Miami Beachapprox. 230 m from Miami Beach Convention Center to venueClosest walk of the listed hotels; kitchen in rooms suits longer stays.
Free Wi-Fi, parking (paid), air conditioning, pet-friendly, kitchen in rooms, kid-friendly, smoke-free property
Dorchester Miami Beach Hotel & Suites
3-star
South Beach, Miami Beachapprox. 340 m from Miami Beach Convention Center to venueMid-range South Beach option; confirm breakfast inclusion and taxes.
Breakfast, free Wi-Fi, parking, outdoor pool, hot tub, air conditioning, fitness center, restaurant
Aqua Hotel & Suites
3-star
South Beach, Miami Beachapprox. 780 m from Miami Beach Convention Center to venueSlightly longer walk; good for budget-conscious visitors who want South Beach access.
Free Wi-Fi, parking (paid), air conditioning, breakfast, accessible, business center, kid-friendly, smoke-free property
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
taxi
Estimated costApprox. USD taxi/rideshare from MIA to venue (estimate; confirm before travel)
Best forMiami International Airport (MIA) to Miami Beach Convention Center
Metered taxi or flat-rate airport taxi; journey typically 25-40 min depending on traffic.
taxi
Estimated costApprox. USD taxi/rideshare from FLL to venue (estimate; confirm before travel)
Best forFort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) to Miami Beach Convention Center
Longer transfer from FLL; allow 40-55 min and budget for tolls.
rideshare
Estimated costApprox. USD 30-50 one way depending on surge; confirm in app.
Best forMiami International Airport (MIA) to Miami Beach Convention Center
Uber and Lyft operate at MIA; use the designated rideshare pickup area.
public bus
Estimated costApprox. USD 2.25-3.00 single ride; confirm current Metrobus fare.
Best forMIA Airport to Miami Beach via Miami-Dade Metrobus
Cheapest option but slower with luggage; check Route 150 Airport Flyer or current express service.
parking
Estimated costApprox. USD 20-40 per day; confirm event rate.
Best forMiami Beach Convention Center parking garage
On-site garage fills early during large shows; arrive before opening or use rideshare.
rideshare
Estimated costApprox. USD 8-15 for a short ride; confirm in app.
Best forSouth Beach hotel cluster to Miami Beach Convention Center
Useful for hotels more than 15 minutes on foot or in rain; walking is practical for hotels within 1 km.
Weather
May is late spring in Miami Beach: warm and humid, with typical highs around 29-31 C (85-88 F), lows around 22-24 C (72-75 F), and a growing chance of afternoon showers or thunderstorms as the wet season approaches. Carry a light rain layer and expect strong air-conditioning in session rooms. These are climatological ranges, not a forecast; check a local forecast within 48 hours of travel.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
US mobile networks cover Miami Beach well, but exhibit halls can be congested during XPONENTIAL. International visitors should confirm roaming or buy an eSIM or local SIM before arrival. Venue Wi-Fi may be available for basic use; exhibitors should order dedicated internet for demos and lead capture. Bring a power bank and check whether your hotel charges for Wi-Fi.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Business dress
Business casual or business attire is typical; defense and government attendees may wear uniforms. Comfortable shoes matter because the exhibit hall and conference rooms are spread across the convention center.
Language
English is the working language of the show. Spanish is widely spoken in Miami, and many visitor-facing businesses are bilingual.
Tipping
Restaurant tipping of 18-20 percent is standard; taxis and rideshare tips are appreciated but check whether a service charge is already included.
Scheduling
Meetings often start on time; arrive early for badge pickup and allow 15-20 minutes to move between halls. Exchange business cards or LinkedIn details after demos.
Heat and humidity
Miami Beach is warm and humid in May. Carry water, use sunscreen, and keep a light layer for heavily air-conditioned session rooms.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Destination: MIA
Book flights to Miami International (MIA) for the shortest transfer to Miami Beach Convention Center; compare Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL) only if the fare saving covers the longer transfer. May is a busy late-spring period, so book early and arrive the day before your first meeting. For international travel, allow extra time for US customs and immigration, and carry registration confirmation, hotel details and a return ticket. Use the flight samples in this listing as directional fare bands, not live quotes.
Transport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Miami International Airport (MIA): approx. 25-40 min by road depending on traffic; Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL): approx. 40-55 min by road depending on traffic. Allow road or rail time to Miami Beach Convention Center; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Miami Beach Convention Center: South Beach, Miami Beach: Riviera Hotel South Beach; South Beach, Miami Beach: Kasa El Paseo Miami Beach; South Beach, Miami Beach: The Catalina Hotel & Beach Club.
Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft operate across Miami and Miami Beach. Use the designated rideshare pickup zones at MIA and the convention center, and expect surge pricing during show opening and closing hours. Confirm the driver and destination in the app before entering; trips from South Beach to the mainland cross causeways that can be congested.
Public transit: Miami-Dade Metrobus is the main public transit option for Miami Beach. Route 150 Airport Flyer connects MIA with Miami Beach, and the South Beach Local circulates within South Beach; fares are low but schedules can be infrequent. Metrorail serves the mainland and connects to Metrobus, but there is no direct Metrorail station at Miami Beach Convention Center. Confirm current routes, fares and service hours before relying on transit for timed meetings.
Parking: Miami Beach Convention Center has an on-site parking garage, and nearby municipal garages serve South Beach. Rates and availability vary by event; expect higher pricing and early fill during XPONENTIAL. Exhibitors with freight or large demos should confirm loading dock access, vehicle height limits and move-in times with the venue. For visitors, arriving before 08:00 or using rideshare can reduce parking stress.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: May 2027 (late spring)
Temperature: Approx. 22-31 C / 72-88 F; warm and humid.
Seasonality: May marks the approach of Miami's wet season, with a higher chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Keep indoor backup plans for outdoor meetings and carry a compact rain layer.
Packing: Lightweight business casual clothing, a light rain shell, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, refillable water bottle, power bank and a sweater for air-conditioned session rooms.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at XPONENTIAL usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
T-1
Confirm registration and badge type
T-2
Book flights to MIA or FLL
T-3
Reserve a South Beach hotel
T-4
Build your exhibitor and session shortlist
T-5
Check US entry requirements
T-6
Arrange airport transfer
T-7
Review the conference tracks
T-8
Prepare business materials
T-9
Plan the hall route
T-10
Book off-site meetings carefully
T-11
Confirm parking or transit
T-12
Pack for warm, humid weather
T-13
Check flight and weather updates
T-14
Arrive and test the route
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at Miami Beach Convention Center
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2XPONENTIAL registration concourse
Miami Beach Convention Center
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
Miami Beach Convention Center
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nights$280.00
- Per diem × 2$150.00
Estimated total$430.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether XPONENTIAL fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
What is your primary role?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus aligns with the official product themes.
Best for
Buyers, researchers, and delegates evaluating the programme and networking value.
Min. budget
$400.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration and travel.
Risks
Limited session times published - confirm agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a clear lead-generation or launch goal for this market.
Best for
Suppliers and brands seeking qualified meetings with the event audience.
Min. budget
$2,500.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, and marketing prep.
Risks
Booth pricing not published in captured sources - confirm with organiser.
skip
Programme, audience, or commercial goals do not match your plan.
Best for
Teams whose category or region fit is weak this edition.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
No major risks listed.
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
What is AUVSI XPONENTIAL 2027?
AUVSI XPONENTIAL is the uncrewed systems and autonomy trade show organised by AUVSI with Messe Düsseldorf North America. The 2027 edition brings platform builders, component suppliers, software developers, service firms and buyers together in Miami Beach.
When and where is XPONENTIAL 2027?
The listing places the 2027 edition in May 2027 at Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami Beach, Florida. Confirm exact dates, hall hours and access rules on xponential.org before booking travel.
Who should attend XPONENTIAL?
Engineers, programme managers, defense and government buyers, public safety teams, energy and agriculture operators, logistics firms, research labs, robotics integrators and investors evaluating uncrewed and autonomous systems.
What technologies are exhibited?
Expect uncrewed aerial, ground and maritime platforms, sensors, payloads, autonomy software, communications, counter-UAS, test ranges, launch and recovery equipment, components and support services.
Is XPONENTIAL trade-only?
The show is industry-facing. Check pass types and access rules on xponential.org before registering; some sessions or demonstration areas may have additional restrictions.
How do I register for XPONENTIAL 2027?
Use the official registration link on xponential.org. Avoid third-party sites that charge for badge processing or promise access that the organiser has not confirmed.
How do I get from Miami International Airport to the venue?
Taxi or rideshare is the simplest option, typically 25-40 minutes depending on traffic. Miami-Dade Metrobus is cheaper but slower with luggage; confirm current routes and fares before travel.
Where should I stay near Miami Beach Convention Center?
South Beach hotels within walking distance include Riviera Hotel South Beach, Pestana South Beach Miami and Lincoln Arms Suites. May rates rise during large events, so book early and confirm taxes and resort fees.
Is parking available at the venue?
Miami Beach Convention Center has on-site parking, and nearby municipal garages serve South Beach. Rates and availability vary by event; arrive early and confirm current rates with the venue.
Do I need a visa to attend from outside the United States?
Many visa-waiver country nationals can apply for ESTA for business visits; others may need a B-1 visitor visa. Confirm with the US embassy or consulate in your country and carry registration confirmation and hotel details.
Can I fly my own drone at the show?
Personal drone flights are not permitted unless explicitly approved by the organiser. Flight demonstrations and indoor displays are managed by exhibitors and show staff under US airspace rules.
What is the dress code for XPONENTIAL?
Business casual is standard, with comfortable shoes for walking the exhibit hall. Some defense and government attendees wear uniforms; session rooms can be heavily air-conditioned, so bring a light layer.
How do I get from my hotel to the venue?
Most South Beach hotels are a 5-15 minute walk from the convention center. For hotels farther north on Collins Avenue or on the mainland, use rideshare or taxi and allow extra time for causeway traffic during show hours.
Glossary
- AUVSI
- Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International, the trade association that organises AUVSI XPONENTIAL and represents the uncrewed systems and robotics sector.
- XPONENTIAL
- AUVSI's annual trade show and conference for uncrewed systems, autonomy, robotics and supporting technologies; the 2027 edition is listed for Miami Beach.
- Uncrewed system
- A platform that operates without an onboard human pilot or crew, often with remote supervision or autonomous mission software.
- UAS
- Uncrewed aircraft system: the aircraft, ground control station, datalink and support equipment needed for a drone operation.
- UGV
- Uncrewed ground vehicle: a wheeled, tracked or legged platform used for inspection, logistics, defense or field research.
- USV
- Uncrewed surface vessel: a boat or craft that operates on the water without crew, used for survey, patrol or oceanographic work.
- Counter-UAS (C-UAS)
- Systems and procedures used to detect, track, identify or mitigate unauthorised or hostile drones.
- BVLOS
- Beyond visual line of sight: flying an uncrewed aircraft without the pilot maintaining direct visual contact, usually under specific regulatory approvals.
- Autonomy stack
- The combined perception, localisation, planning and control software plus compute hardware that lets a vehicle operate with limited human input.
- Payload
- A mission sensor, camera, cargo or communications package carried by an uncrewed platform.
- Teleoperation
- Remote human control of a vehicle or robot, often used for complex tasks, recovery or supervised autonomy.
- Detect-and-avoid (DAA)
- A capability that senses other aircraft or obstacles and automatically or advisably avoids collisions.
- Part 107
- The FAA rule set for small commercial drone operations in the United States; international operators should confirm how it applies to demos or flight activity.
- Messe Düsseldorf North America
- The North American subsidiary of Messe Düsseldorf, named as a co-organiser of AUVSI XPONENTIAL in the event listing.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- XPONENTIAL 2027
- autonomous technology conference
- XPONENTIAL Miami 2027
- Miami USA
- Conference Miami 2027
- Uncrewed Systems
- Robotics
- Uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) and drones
- digital transformation expo
- Miami technology expo 2027
Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.