The unmanned systems industry plays a significant role in global peace and security while contributing to the economic development of countries through value-added innovations.
This is according to Major General Mubarak Saeed bin Gafan Al Jabri, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of the upcoming Unmanned Systems Exhibition and Simulation and Training Exhibition (SimTEX) 2024, along with its accompanying conference.
Al Jabri was speaking to diplomatic missions accredited to the UAE at a briefing organised by Adnec Group and the Ministry of Defence.
Providing an overview
The purpose was to provide an overview of the latest preparations for the These grand events, held under the patronage of Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi, which will take place from January 22 to 25 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec).
Al Jabri said: "These innovations have expanded beyond defence applications and now include commercial and civil uses."
Al Jabri emphasised that the UMEX and SimTEX exhibitions, along with the accompanying conference, offer a platform to showcase the latest advancements in unmanned systems, simulation and training, robotics, and artificial intelligence applications, bringing together international industry leaders and decision-makers to explore avenues for advancing these crucial sectors.
Al Jabri expressed the organising committee's anticipation of the participation of numerous delegations, government officials, senior decision-makers, and specialists in the various activities of the two exhibitions. These activities encompass sectors experiencing unprecedented growth due to recent advancements in artificial intelligence technologies. The events will also provide a conducive environment for startups to connect with local and international partners, establish strategic alliances, and explore opportunities for direct and indirect investment in innovative technologies within these vital sectors.
Colocated conference
He announced that the two exhibitions will coincide with the UMEX and SimTEX conference on January 22, themed, 'Soaring to new heights: Impact of new technologies in evolving unmanned systems era’. This conference is expected to draw more than 200 senior leaders, decision-makers, and experts. Over several sessions, they will address prominent regional and international challenges, examine the latest technologies and innovations in these sectors, and discuss their applications in civilian and military contexts.
He stressed that the collaboration with Adnec Group for these unique events in the Middle East dedicated to unmanned systems, simulation, training, artificial intelligence, and robotics represents a significant milestone in the specialised exhibition industry worldwide.
Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, MD and Group CEO of Adnec Group, said: "UMEX and SimTEX are exceptional in every aspect. It will introduce five new initiatives for the first time, including the UMEX trade platform featuring the participation of more than 30 international and local companies specialising in the civil and commercial applications of unmanned systems. Furthermore, onshore and marine demonstrations of unmanned systems will be held at Adnec Centre for the first time."
MoD Coding Challenge
Al Dhaheri also mentioned that the current session's activities will include the launch of the MoD Coding Challenge competition, aimed at national talents in the programming sector through collaboration between the Ministry of Defence and Adnec Group. A new platform will be unveiled for startups from around the world, inviting them to submit their latest innovations and technologies to compete for the "UMEX NEXT_GEN Award for Innovation." Additionally, a program of daily dialogue sessions for the commercial sector will feature speakers from leading companies in this field.
Adnec Group and the Ministry of Defence is organising these two exhibitions and the accompanying conference, with Edge Group as a strategic partner. It is anticipated that these events will witness significant participation from major international companies, as well as key decision-makers and specialists.--TradeArabia News Service