The final day at UMEX 2018, the International Unmanned Systems exhibition in Abu Dhabi, was dedicated for the live flying demonstration of unmanned aircraft at Al Ain International Airport. Nine local and international companies participated to the event, including the UAE-based ADASI, the live performances demonstrated the sophisticated maneuvering and surveillance capabilities of unmanned aerial systems as well as their ability to capture high-resolution aerial photos and trace targets with high accuracy and efficiency.

Exhibitors demonstrated their UAVs at UMEX 2018 during a live flying demonstration in Al Ain airport, United Arab Emirates

UMEX 2018 was attended by 122 major global defence-related companies representing 34 countries, the event showcased latest unmanned systems and simulation and training technologies, and facilitated partnerships and business deals among the participating companies. Additionally, over AED 878.371 million ($240 milion) worth defence deals were signed at UMEX 2018 between the Armed Forces and specialised local and international events.

UMEX 2018 was visited by 12,400 local and international visitors from all over the world, and the two events were covered by 419 media representatives during the three days of the show.

Brigadier General Rashid Mohammed Al Shamsi, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of UMEX and SimTEX 2018, said: “The success of UMEX and SimTEX 2018 validates the high-level efficiency and professionalism of the members of UMEX and SimTEX Higher Organising Committee and its sub committees that included many Emirati talents. This success would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the continued follow-up and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Their Highnesses Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates.

Al Shamsi also expressed his satisfaction at the continued success achieved by the dual event in attracting major international companies as well as catering to the evolving needs of unmanned systems and simulation and training sectors.

Al Shamsi also appreciated the untiring efforts of the members of the event’s Higher Organising Committee and subcommittees who played a crucial role in the success of the event. He also thanked ADNEC, the event organiser and ADASI, its strategic partner, along with other national organisations and local and international companies that have spared no effort to deliver a memorable edition of UMEX and SimTEX.

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Group CEO of Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC), said: “We are delighted with the huge success achieved by UMEX and SimTEX 2018 due to the record local and international participation. We attribute this success to ADNEC's successful sales and marketing strategies, including active participation in 15 international exhibitions and continued engagement with its strategic partners. This articulates our priority to diversify our portfolio of events into sectors identified in the Abu Dhabi Plan and Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030

Al Dhaheri commended the efforts made by the members of the Higher Organising Committee and its subcommittees in delivering the dual event in a manner befitting the reputation of the UAE. He also thanked ADNEC’s partners in both public and private sectors that have actively supported ADNEC in organising the mega event including the General Command of the Armed Forces and Abu Dhabi Autonomous Systems Investments (ADASI), the strategic partner of UMEX and SimTEX 2018.