A Strategic Partnership Strengthening Qatar’s Role as a Global Hub for Defence Innovation

The Organising Committee of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026) has officially announced EDGE, one of the world’s leading advanced technology groups, as the Main Sponsor of its ninth edition, taking place from 19–22 January 2026 at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC).

Held 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 the Qatar Armed Forces, DIMDEX 2026 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.”

EDGE Joins as Main Sponsor for the First Time

Participating for the first time, EDGE’s sponsorship underscores the growing global appeal of DIMDEX as a leading international platform for showcasing cutting-edge defence technologies, advanced maritime solutions, and strategic industry partnerships.

The agreement marks a major milestone for both organisations, reinforcing Qatar’s leadership in defence innovation and expanding EDGE’s footprint in the regional and global defence market.

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
• Rashed Al Hashmi, Sr. Manager, Executive Office and Special Projects, EDGE
• Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Saleh Al-Ansari, Chairman, DIMDEX Organising Committee
• Salma Al Mansoori, SVP of Marketing and Communications, EDGE

Building Strategic Defence Partnerships

His Excellency Lt Gen (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed Al Mannai stated:

“Through collaboration with regional partners, we aim to anticipate emerging challenges and deploy advanced solutions, building a resilient and secure future grounded in collective progress. Strengthening regional security demands strong partnerships and shared expertise.”

Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Saleh Al-Ansari added:

“We are delighted to welcome EDGE as our Main Sponsor. DIMDEX provides the perfect global stage for EDGE to showcase its advanced defence technologies, enhance regional capabilities, and open new commercial and innovation-driven opportunities.”

EDGE: Redefining Defence Innovation

Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director and CEO of EDGE, commented:

“Joining DIMDEX 2026 as the Main Sponsor marks a key step in EDGE’s journey to lead in advanced defence and maritime technologies. Our participation reflects our ambition to drive innovation, strengthen regional collaboration, and deliver solutions designed for global export.”

Launched in 2019 in the UAE, EDGE has become a global powerhouse in 4IR (Fourth Industrial Revolution) defence technologies, focusing on autonomous systems, smart weapons, electronic warfare, and naval systems — shaping the future of global defence innovation.

DIMDEX: A Decade of Global Defence Excellence

Now in its ninth edition, DIMDEX stands among the most prominent international maritime defence and security events, connecting industry leaders, governments, and innovators. Beyond its exhibition floor, DIMDEX serves as a strategic platform for high-level dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange, advancing Qatar’s position as a global hub for security and innovation.

With a focus on investment, sustainability, and advanced technologies, DIMDEX 2026 continues to showcase Qatar’s commitment to shaping the future of defence innovation and supporting global stability.