The Organising Committee for the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026) has revealed that EDGE will be the Main Sponsor for the event's ninth edition.
This prominent exhibition is scheduled to occur from 19 to 22 January 2026 at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC).
Under the distinguished patronage of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, the event is hosted by the Qatar Armed Forces with a focus on being “A Global Hub for Defence Innovations.”
EDGE joins DIMDEX
The sponsorship by EDGE, a renowned advanced technology group, marks its inaugural participation in Qatar's key international defence and security exhibition.
This collaboration signifies increased global interest as DIMDEX has established itself as a vital venue for showcasing technological advancements in defence, innovative maritime systems, and sophisticated military technology.
Signing ceremony and agreement
The sponsorship arrangement was sealed at a ceremony held at the Ministry of Defence
The sponsorship arrangement was sealed at a ceremony held at the Ministry of Defence, attended by key officials including HE Lt Gen (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed Al Mannai, Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces, and Rashed AlHashmi from EDGE.
The agreement was signed by Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Saleh Al-Ansari, Chairman of the DIMDEX Organising Committee, and Salma AlMansoori, SVP of Marketing and Communications at EDGE.
Regional collaboration
In a statement, HE Lt Gen (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed Al Mannai stressed the importance of collaboration with nearby nations to face emerging challenges. He emphasized the significance of strong partnerships to fortify regional security and stability through collective expertise and enhanced capabilities.
Statements from DIMDEX and EDGE
Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Saleh Al-Ansari expressed enthusiasm about EDGE's role as the Main Sponsor and exhibitor, which he believes will bolster EDGE’s global expansion opportunities. "With its strong global reputation as a leader in advanced defence-related technology, DIMDEX offers the ideal platform," he noted.
Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director and CEO of EDGE, commented on their debut sponsorship, emphasising EDGE’s dedication to advancing defence and maritime technology. "This debut highlights the strength of our portfolio, the value we place in regional and global collaboration," he stated.
EDGE technologies and innovations
Established in 2019 in the UAE, EDGE focuses on leveraging Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies to enhance sovereign capabilities for national and international security. Their offerings include next-generation defence systems, autonomous technology, and advanced electronic warfare solutions.
About DIMDEX
DIMDEX has developed into a significant event on the international maritime defence and security agenda. It serves not only as an exhibition but also as a strategic platform facilitating partnerships and high-level dialogues.
By fostering innovation and encouraging investment, DIMDEX underscores Qatar’s key role in global security and the future of maritime defence.
The Organising Committee of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026) has announced that EDGE, one of the world’s pioneering advanced technology groups, will be the Main Sponsor of the ninth edition of the event, set to take place from 19 to 22 January 2026 at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC).
Held over four days, DIMDEX 2026 takes place under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, Head of State and Supreme Commander of Qatar Armed Forces, and is hosted and organised by the Qatar Armed Forces, under the theme: “A Global Hub for Defence Innovations: Invest in Possibilities to Shape a Secure Tomorrow.”
Participating for the first time in Qatar’s flagship international defence and security exhibition, EDGE’s sponsorship underscores the growing global interest in DIMDEX, which has evolved into a premier international platform for exhibitors to showcase the latest technological breakthroughs, cutting-edge defence systems, and state-of-the-art maritime equipment.
Signing ceremony
The partnership further enhances opportunities for commercial exchange, industry collaboration, and international investment.
The signing ceremony was held at the Ministry of Defence in the presence of HE Lt Gen (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed Al Mannai, Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces and Rashed AlHashmi, Sr. Manager, Executive Office and Special Projects at Office of the MD and CEO of EDGE.
The agreement was inked by Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Saleh Al-Ansari, Chairman of the DIMDEX Organising Committee, and Salma AlMansoori, SVP of Marketing and Communications at EDGE.
Close collaboration with neighbouring nations
HE Lt Gen (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed Al Mannai, Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces stated: “Through close collaboration with neighbouring nations and regional stakeholders, we strive to anticipate emerging challenges and deploy advanced solutions, building a resilient and secure future grounded in collective progress.”
“Strengthening security and stability across the region requires fostering robust partnerships, enhancing our capabilities, and leveraging shared expertise to address evolving defence and security needs effectively.”
Strong global reputation
Commenting on the announcement, Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Saleh Al-Ansari, Chairman of the DIMDEX Organising Committee, said: “We are delighted to welcome EDGE as the Main Sponsor of the ninth edition of DIMDEX, in addition to being an exhibitor in the event.”
“With its strong global reputation as a leader in advanced defence-related technology, DIMDEX offers the ideal platform for EDGE to showcase its innovations to an international audience, opening new avenues to expand its global presence and business opportunities, while also strengthening the region’s capabilities to meet evolving defence and security challenges.”
“We look forward to a successful collaboration with EDGE and to witnessing the positive impact of their participation at this edition of DIMDEX.”
Advanced defence and maritime technologies
Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director and CEO, EDGE, said: “EDGE joins DIMDEX 2026 as the Main Sponsor for the first time, demonstrating the scale of our ambition and our determination to lead in advanced defence and maritime technologies.”
“This debut highlights the strength of our portfolio, the value we place in regional and global collaboration, and our focus on delivering solutions designed for export.”
Launched in 2019 in the UAE, EDGE is one of the world’s pioneering advanced technology groups, established to develop agile, bold and disruptive solutions for defence and beyond.
4IR technologies
Focusing on harnessing Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies, EDGE is advancing sovereign capabilities for global export and national security.
Working with customers and international partners, EDGE’s portfolio of highly competitive solutions includes next-generation land and naval systems, autonomous capabilities, smart weapons, propulsion systems, and advanced electronic warfare solutions.
DIMDEX
The Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX) has grown into a premier international event on the global maritime defence and security calendar.
Beyond its role as an exhibition, it serves as a strategic platform for showcasing innovation, forging partnerships, and facilitating high-level dialogue vital to strengthening defence cooperation at both national and international levels.
By promoting investment, innovation and sustainable collaboration, DIMDEX continues to underline Qatar’s pivotal role in advancing global security and shaping the future of maritime defence.
