Adnan Hiroli has been event director of DroneX (part of the Uncrewed Tech Expo at Excel London) since 2019. For Hiroli, the event was a “passion project”. Now, he has taken full ownership.
Under Hiroli’s stewardship, the event has grown continually, in particular due to the rising demand for “drone-focused technologies”. He is taking over the event from Fortem International.
DroneX began life as part of Helitech, the long-running aviation exhibition launched in 1986. Under Hiroli’s direction, it evolved from a helicopter-focused showcase into a leading platform for drones, eVTOLs and wider uncrewed systems.
“DroneX has been more than a trade show to me, it’s been a passion project, a community, and a catalyst for innovation,” said Hiroli. “I’ve dedicated five years of my life to building this show, learning from the industry, and connecting the incredible people who make it what it is today.
“Taking full ownership feels like a natural next step. It’s a leap of faith, but one I take wholeheartedly because I believe in the potential of this industry and in the power of collaboration.”
Backed by a small group of investors, Hiroli plans to expand DroneX beyond aerial technologies to include land and marine sectors under one platform. Future editions will continue to focus on regulation, innovation, and commercial adoption.
One exhibitor, Ryan Kempley – founder of ISS Aerospace – commented on the event: “Great first day had at DroneX Tradeshow & Conference. A calm before the storm shot from this morning, and very much a well done to all the team. Looking forward to day two!”
Hiroli plans to grow DroneX beyond aerial technologies, bringing land and marine systems under one platform.
DroneX will return to Excel London on 29–30 September 2026. The handover marks a modest but notable shift within the UK’s evolving drone and UAV sector.