As the eagerly awaited eighth edition of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2024) approaches, the Organising Committee convened a diplomat briefing at the prestigious Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha, in the attendance of representatives of diplomatic missions, military and commercial attachés accredited to embassies in Qatar, alongside members of the media.
During this conference, the Organising Committee shed light on essential logistical aspects that are crucial for participants in DIMDEX 2024. Held under the esteemed patronage of HH Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, hosted and organised by Qatar Armed Forces, the event will take place from 4 to 6 March 2024 at the Qatar National Convention Centre, under the theme “Igniting the Future of Maritime Security and Beyond.”
Speaking at the briefing, Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Al-Ansari, Chairman of the Organising Committee of DIMDEX 2024, presented the array of activities and events planned for the eighth edition. “Since its inception in 2008, DIMDEX has accomplished several achievements and growth, reflected by the increase in numbers of exhibitors, visitors, and official delegations, as well as the expansion in participation and the substantial value of contracts signed.”
“Today, we stand on the brink of our eighth edition, poised to host more than 200 international and national companies specialising in defence and related sectors, complemented by 9 significant international pavilions. This clearly emphasizes DIMDEX’s position as a premier platform for the latest defence innovations and technology,” he added.
Emphasising the inclusive vision of the event, he remarked: “Under the slogan “Igniting the Future of Maritime Security and Beyond”, this edition recognises the critical importance of cross-sector integration and cooperation for the global future of security, peace, and prosperity, extending beyond maritime defence to encompass vital additional defence sectors. In addition to the main exhibition, we are honoured to hold this year’s MENC conference in partnership with the Centre of Strategic Studies at the Qatar Armed Forces, and visits by high-profile official delegations, in addition to the display of visiting warships at Hamad Port.
Talking about this year’s conference, Staff Major General (Doctor/Air) Rashid Hamad Al-Nuaimi, Commander of the Strategic Studies Center of the Qatar Armed Forces, stated: “The Middle East Naval Commanders Conference (MENC) is themed ‘Economic Growth Prospects in Light of Security Challenges and Their Global Impact’. This event brings together thought leaders and military commanders to address today’s global challenges and threats, fostering dialogue on the latest maritime and global security issues and their economic implications.”
First Lieutenant (Sea) Khalid Mohammed Al-Siddiqi, VIP Delegation & Protocol Director provided an overview of the VIP delegations, and the unparalleled networking and interaction opportunities available at the event, with defence ministers, chiefs of staff, naval commanders, and high representatives of defence companies. He reiterated DIMDEX role as a platform to facilitate bilateral and multilateral discussions to strengthen maritime ties, explore potential collaborations, and sign commercial deals.
Major (Sea) Abdulrahman Yousuf Al-Malki, Warships Logistics Director, gave details on the logistical arrangements for the visiting warships expected at Hamad Port. He also introduced the sports championship organised on the last day of the event at Al-Wakrah Sports Club, and aimed at fostering camaraderie among ship crews.
Brigadier General Ali Harib Al-Harib, Deputy Commander of Qatar Emiri signal Corps, and Director of Project 401 for Special Operations, revealed the new Project 401, which features Special Operations Training Centres dedicated to enhancing the capabilities of special forces and counter-terrorism units globally, integrating traditional combat training with cutting-edge technology.
Announcing the participation of Project 401 for Special Operations in DIMDEX 2024, HE ADDED: “We are proud to launch these centres which are uniquely designed to cater to the specialised needs of various security services, offering tailored training programs that integrate the latest in live fire and simulation technologies. By offering a blend of traditional combat training with advanced technological tools, our Special Operations Training Centres are not just preparing forces for today's demands, but are also future-proofing their skills for tomorrow's challenges.”
In this eighth edition, DIMDEX 2024 will showcase an expanded exhibition space exceeding 35,000 square metres across 7 halls. The event is expected to attract more than 20,000 visitors, offering them a unique opportunity to discover the latest defence equipment and technology in an enhanced and expansive setting.
DIMDEX 2024 stands as a premier networking event, enabling direct engagement with high-level delegations, military leaders, and procurement agencies representatives, facilitating the signing of contracts, and fostering commercial opportunities. The event acts a vital platform for knowledge exchange and discussions on the latest defence related topics, including the security and geopolitical cases currently affecting our world.
