Doha, January 19 (QNA) - Doha is hosting the ninth edition of the Doha International Maritime Defense Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026), according to the commander of the Qatar Amiri Naval Force.

Speaking at the opening, HE Staff Major General (Navy) Abdullah bin Hassan Al Sulaiti emphasized the importance of defense exhibitions in equipping armed forces with the capabilities needed to safeguard sovereignty and national security.

His Excellency described DIMDEX 2026 as a forum for innovation, offering the latest maritime defense technologies alongside supporting systems critical to military operations.

The four-day event is being held under the theme "A Global Hub for Defense Innovation – Invest in Possibilities to Shape a Secure Tomorrow." It highlights the role of naval defense in regional and global security.

The exhibition also serves as a platform for senior military leaders, academics, and experts to discuss emerging issues in maritime defense and security through the Middle East Naval Commanders Conference. The event reflects Qatar's commitment to diplomatic solutions, regional cooperation, and joint security initiatives.

Over 200 international, regional, and national companies are participating, showcasing advanced technologies including cybersecurity, anti-piracy systems, artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, and C5ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) solutions. The exhibition has attracted a record 110 high-level official delegations from around the world.

The first day saw the official opening of the naval ship display at Hamad Port, which received eight visiting warships from six countries, including Qatar's multi-role warship Al-Fulk, the largest of its kind in the Gulf region.

Several defense-related contracts, memoranda of understanding, and strategic agreements in the field of maritime defense were signed during the opening, in the presence of HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan Al-Thani.

DIMDEX 2026 also features the Middle East Naval Commanders Conference, organized in partnership with Joaan Bin Jassim Academy for Defence Studies, under the theme of defense diplomacy and maritime security challenges.

Over the following three days, exhibitors will hold specialized workshops demonstrating their latest defense innovations and technologies. (QNA)