Join us for the NIDV Exhibition Defence & Security 2026 on 19 November at Ahoy Rotterdam, Netherlands, featuring key industry players and innovative solutions.
Dates
19 Nov 2026
City / country
Rotterdam, Netherlands
Venue
Ahoy Rotterdam
Time
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Companies exhibiting at NIDV Exhibition Defence & Security 2026 include 3M Deutschland GmbH, ACB group, Accenture, ACE development and Engineering and ACL Technopanel BV.
Event overview
The NIDV Exhibition Defence & Security 2026 is a premier event showcasing the latest innovations in the defence and security sectors.
It offers a platform for industry leaders and government representatives to connect and discuss advancements in technology and collaboration.
TL;DR
Visiting the NIDV Exhibition Defence & Security provides access to the latest developments in defence technology, opportunities to network with industry leaders, and insights into collaborative efforts in security. It is an efficient way to engage with key decision-makers and explore innovative solutions.
Exhibiting at the NIDV Exhibition Defence & Security allows companies to showcase their products to a targeted audience of decision-makers, gain visibility in the defence sector, and establish valuable connections with potential partners and clients. Scale and Focus: This event is a key gathering for the defence and security sectors, featuring numerous exhibitors and international delegations. Buyer Authority: Attendees include government officials, industry leaders,.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Location & Facilities
Halls & areas
1Ahoyweg 10, Rotterdam, Netherlands
Entrances & gates
Main Entrance
Floor plans & maps
Food options
Catering services available
On-site diningParking: Parking availability should be confirmed on the venue's official site.
Attend
Event days & opening times
General Admission
Free for government officials and NIDV members.
Ticket info
Ticket notes
Registration is open until 12 November at 17:00.
Registration deadline
2026-11-12T17:00:00
What's on
1
Keynote
1
Event days
10:00–11:00
Typical time
Raymond Knops
Chairman of the NIDV @ NIDV
Opening Speech
Thursday, Nov 19, 2026
Plenary Session
How the last edition performed
Exhibitors
4,500
Edition #
36
Next edition outlook
2026-11-19 – 2026-11-19The 37th edition of NEDS will focus on the latest innovations in defence and security.
Impact
The NIDV Exhibition Defence & Security 2026 is a premier event showcasing the latest innovations in the defence and security sectors. It offers a platform for industry leaders and government representatives to connect and discuss advancements in technology and collaboration. The NIDV Exhibition Defence & Security is crucial for fostering collaboration between government and industry, especially in the context of increasing global security challenges.
Audience quality
Visitors typically include Government officials and policymakers, Defence contractors and suppliers, Security technology providers, Military personnel and representatives. Dates and Venue: NIDV Exhibition Defence & Security 2026 takes place on 19 November 2026 at Ahoy Rotterdam, Netherlands. Scale and Focus: This event is a key gathering for the defence and security sectors, featuring numerous exhibitors and international delegations. Organiser: The event is organised by the Netherlands Industries for Defence.
Exhibitor outcomes
Exhibiting at the NIDV Exhibition Defence & Security allows companies to showcase their products to a targeted audience of decision-makers, gain visibility in the defence sector, and establish valuable connections with potential partners and clients. Scale and Focus: This event is a key gathering for the defence and security sectors, featuring numerous exhibitors and international delegations. Buyer Authority: Attendees include government officials, industry leaders,. Exhibitor categories include Manufacturers of.
Intelligence
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Why it matters
For security integrators, consultants, and end-users, NIDV Exhibition Defence & Security 2026 on 2026-11-19 to 2026-11-19 at Ahoy Rotterdam is the key Italian window to compare video, access, intrusion, fire, and cyber-physical platforms before year-end budgets close — co-located buyers use it to shortlist vendors for 2028 rollouts.
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
AI video analytics at the edge
What ai video analytics at the edge means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Cyber-physical convergence
What cyber-physical convergence means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Cloud-managed access and identity
What cloud-managed access and identity means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regulatory and compliance pressure
What regulatory and compliance pressure means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Critical infrastructure hardening
What critical infrastructure hardening means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Teams covering defence and security procurement usually pair NEDS with one or two larger European peer shows to compare platform offerings, industrial participation models and pricing across markets before committing to framework agreements.
Pre-show (8–12 weeks out)
Secure Rotterdam hotel rooms before the November peak, book stand meetings with NIDV member companies and ministry procurement contacts, and confirm delegation accreditation.
Show week (16–20 November 2026)
Hall walk-throughs by capability segment, live demonstrations, prime contractor and SME negotiations, and bilateral follow-up meetings in The Hague.
Peer events are established European defence and security trade fairs running on annual or biennial cycles in adjacent months to NEDS.
Plan your trip
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Main international gateway for Rotterdam with the widest long-haul network. Take the Intercity direct from Schiphol to Rotterdam Centraal (about 30 minutes), then RET metro line D or E to Zuidplein and a 7-minute walk to Ahoy.
~68 km
to venue
50–70 minutes off-peak by car; about 1 hour by train plus metro
by car
Closest airport to Ahoy Rotterdam, with European services from London City, Barcelona, Rome and a handful of other cities. Taxi from the terminal is the fastest option at roughly EUR 25–35.
~9 km
to venue
15–20 minutes
by car
Second Dutch gateway dominated by low-cost carriers. FlixBus and NS rail connections run Eindhoven to Rotterdam in roughly 1 hour 20 minutes, making it a workable budget alternative to Schiphol.
~110 km
to venue
1 hour 20 – 1 hour 40 by car or direct coach
by car
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Not yet confirmed
Compact, well-connected rooms; November trade-show demand lifts midweek rates, so book early for the 19 November 2026 show day.
Not yet confirmed
The Zuidplein cluster is walkable to Ahoy and removes all show-day travel friction; city-centre options trade walking distance for evening restaurant choice.
Not yet confirmed
Business-first properties with meeting rooms, late check-out and easy access to Ministry of Defence and port-authority contacts; the strongest fit for delegation heads and prime contractor teams.
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Metro and tram (RET)
Roughly 15-20 minutes from the city centre; follow RET signage to Zuidplein and walk to Ahoy.
Train (NS)
Rotterdam Centraal is the main intercity hub for arrivals from Schiphol and other Dutch cities.
Taxi and ride-hail
About 20-25 minutes depending on traffic; allow extra time on show day.
Car and parking
Rotterdam Ahoy has around 2,500 on-site parking spaces; Q-Park Zuidplein 1 and ParkBee offer pre-bookable alternatives within walking distance.
taxi
50–70 minutes off-peak by car; about 1 hour by train plus metro; Main international gateway for Rotterdam with the widest long-haul network. Take the Intercity direct from Schiphol to Rotterdam Centraal (about 30 minutes), then RET metro line D or E to Zuidplein and a 7-minute wa
taxi
15–20 minutes; Closest airport to Ahoy Rotterdam, with European services from London City, Barcelona, Rome and a handful of other cities. Taxi from the terminal is the fastest option at roughly EUR 25–35.
taxi
1 hour 20 – 1 hour 40 by car or direct coach; Second Dutch gateway dominated by low-cost carriers. FlixBus and NS rail connections run Eindhoven to Rotterdam in roughly 1 hour 20 minutes, making it a workable budget alternative to Schiphol.
Plan your trip
Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.
| Type | Who needs it | Fee | Processing | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schengen short-stay visa Type C - business visit | Non-EU/EEA nationals without visa-free access to the Schengen area, travelling for trade fairs, meetings or official visits | Not yet confirmed | Typically around 15 calendar days; apply at least 4-6 weeks before 19 November 2026 | |
| Visa-free business visit (up to 90 days in any 180-day period) | EU/EEA and Swiss nationals, plus visa-waiver nationalities such as the UK, US, Canada, Japan, Australia and New Zealand | Not yet confirmed | No visa application required for short business visits |
Weather
Rotterdam in November 2026 runs cool and wet: daytime highs near 11C (51F) and nights near 6C (42F), with rain on roughly 15 days of the month and about 77 mm total rainfall. Expect wind and showers around Ahoy Rotterdam on 19 November 2026.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
The Netherlands has wide 4G and 5G coverage across cities. Travellers can buy a KPN prepaid SIM at carrier counters or a travel eSIM (entry plans from around USD 0.49; local SIMs roughly USD 9-31), while home-carrier roaming charges are the main cost risk for business visitors.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Business etiquette
Dutch business culture is direct, informal and punctual. Arrive on time, use first names once invited, keep introductions short and get to the agenda quickly; decisions are usually made by consensus across a small team rather than one senior figure.
Tipping
Service and VAT are already included in Dutch restaurant, bar and taxi bills. Rounding up or adding 5–10% for genuinely good service is appreciated but never expected, and hotel housekeeping is typically tipped by a few euros.
Dress and conduct
Defence and security events favour business attire, with suits or smart dress for official receptions and the NIDV plenary. Carry photo ID or a passport at all times — Ahoy Rotterdam applies visitor screening, and photography of stands or personnel may be restricted.
Practical guides
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Destination: AMS
Compare flights to the nearest international gateway serving Rotterdam; confirm ground transport on the organiser site.
EU/EEA and visa-waiver nationals can enter the Netherlands visa-free for business visits of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Other nationalities usually need a Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) supported by an invitation letter from a Dutch business or the organiser for NEDS 2026.
Estimated cost: EUR 90 standard Schengen short-stay visa fee; VFS Global service charges may apply for applications lodged outside the Netherlands.
Processing: Schengen short-stay decisions are typically issued within about 15 calendar days; apply at least 4-6 weeks before the 19 November 2026 event.
Check the IND and Netherlands Worldwide business-visa checklists for the document list, which normally includes passport, invitation letter, travel insurance, accommodation proof and financial evidence. Allow extra processing time for defence-sector visitors.
OfficialFind a stay near the venue with options for every budget.
Check-in (recommended)
2026-11-19
Check-out (recommended)
2026-11-20
Areas to stay
Rotterdam city centre and Kralingen, 15–20 minutes by RET metro to Zuidplein · Rotterdam city centre waterfront and Erasmus Bridge district, 20–25 minutes by metro or taxi to Ahoy · Zuidplein (adjacent to Ahoy Rotterdam) and Rotterdam city centre
budget
EUR 75-120/night
mid range
EUR 120-190/night
premium
EUR 190-300/night
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS): 50–70 minutes off-peak by car; about 1 hour by train plus metro; Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM): 15–20 minutes; Eindhoven Airport (EIN): 1 hour 20 – 1 hour 40 by car or direct coach. Allow road or rail time to Ahoy Rotterdam; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Ahoy Rotterdam: Rotterdam city centre and Kralingen, 15–20 minutes by RET metro to Zuidplein: {'name': 'easyHotel Rotterdam City Centre', 'source_url': 'https://www.easyhotel.com/hotels/netherlands/rotterdam'}, {'name': 'The Social Hub Rotterdam', 'source_url': 'https://www.thesocialhub.co/rotterdam/'}; Zuidplein (adjacent to Ahoy Rotterdam) and Rotterdam city centre: {'name': 'ibis Styles Rotterdam Ahoy', 'source_url': 'https://www.google.com/travel/search?q=ibis%20Styles%2
Ride-hail: Ride-hailing apps are commonly used in Rotterdam; confirm local availability before travel.
Public transit: RET metro, tram and bus services plus NS trains serve Rotterdam Ahoy; plan door-to-door routes with Moovit, 9292 or RET. Q-Park Zuidplein 1 is within walking distance of the venue for drivers.
Parking: On-site parking is available at Ahoy Rotterdam; confirm daily rates and hall access on the organiser or venue site.
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: November 2026 (event day: 19 November 2026)
Temperature: Around 11C (51F) daytime and 6C (42F) at night, based on Rotterdam November averages.
Seasonality: November is one of Rotterdam's wetter months: precipitation on about 15 days and roughly 77 mm of rain across the month, with short showers more likely than all-day rain.
Packing: Pack windproof and waterproof outer layers, an umbrella, and clothing you can layer, because Dutch maritime weather shifts through the day. Comfortable shoes suit the Ahoy Rotterdam halls and the city's cobbled, often wet streets.
Plan your trip
Best day for qualified buyer meetings: Thursday 19 November 2026 (the single show day)
NEDS runs as a concentrated one-day exhibition and conference at Rotterdam Ahoy, so 19 November 2026 is the only day to attend. The programme peaks between the 10:00 Plenary Session and official opening on the Main Stage and the mid-afternoon breakout and demonstration slots, which is when Netherlands Ministry of Defence procurement teams, NIDV member companies and international delegations are all on the floor. Arrive for the 08:30 registration window to clear security and secure early stand meetings, and stay through the closing networking reception to convert contacts into follow-ups.
Delft
The Hague (Den Haag)
Main Exhibition Hall – NIDV Member Pavilion
Ahoy Rotterdam Plenary and Catering Boulevard
Ibis Styles Rotterdam Ahoy Lobby and Zuidplein Bar Zone
Budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.
visitor_ticket
visitor · General Admission
EUR 500 / per person
| Item | For | Tier | Estimated range | Status | As of |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| visitor_ticket | visitor | General Admission | EUR 500 / per person | official |
Decision
Use this quick check to decide whether NIDV Exhibition Defence & Security 2026 fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
What is your primary role?
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.
Min. budget
Not yet confirmed
Timeline
N/A
Risks
No major risks listed.
FAQs & glossary
Frequently asked
Glossary
Trust footer
1
References
1
Publishers
0
Date checked
NIDV
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