Deputy Emir His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani inaugurates DIMDEX 2018.

His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani, Deputy Emir of the State of Qatar, attended this morning’s opening ceremony of the sixth edition of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2018), being held at the Qatar National Convention Center, representing His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar.

Opening ceremony of the sixth edition of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2018)

His Highness inaugurated the 10th anniversary edition of DIMDEX in the presence of H.E. Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, The Prime Minster and Minster of Interior; H.E. Dr. Khalid bin Mohammad Al Attiyah, Deputy Prime Minster and Minster of State for Defense Affairs; and H.E. Major General Abdullah bin Hassan Al Sulaiti, Commander of the Qatar Emiri Naval Forces; in addition to various VIP officials, Diplomatic dignitaries, Ambassadors, Military officials, corporate delegates, as well as several military and naval officers.

H.E. Major General Abdullah bin Hassan Al Sulaiti, Commander of the Qatar Emiri Naval Forces, gave an opening speech and said: “DIMDEX is the direct result of our Leadership’s wise vision that reflects Qatar's continuous role in enhancing the region’s security and stability, and unifying naval efforts for the major impact it has on the regional and global security.” He added: “The conditions and turmoil witnessed today across this vital region of the world certainly calls the need for combining efforts, enhancing coordination, and exchanging information and experiences to achieve the objectives we all aspire to.”

His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani, Deputy Emir of the State of Qatar, inaugurated the 10th anniversary edition of DIMDEX in the presence of H.E. Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, The Prime Minster and Minster of Interior; H.E. Dr. Khalid bin Mohammad Al Attiyah, Deputy Prime Minster and Minster of State for Defense Affairs; and H.E. Major General Abdullah bin Hassan Al Sulaiti, Commander of the Qatar Emiri Naval Forces. Navy Recognition picture.

H.E. Major General Al Sulaiti concluded his speech thanking the Emir of the State of Qatar, in which under his wise guidance the standards of the sixth edition of DIMDEX exceeded all previous editions.

Mr. Nasser Hassan Al Naimi, Managing Director of Barzan Holdings, the recently announced strategic partner of DIMDEX 2018, said that Barzan Holdings comprises of three key pillars including investing in defence and security companies, research and development, and participating in strategic military forces procurements. He also highlighted the company was established by the Ministry of Defence as a strategic military investment company aimed at supporting Qatar in becoming a hub for the development of next-generation defence products, by enhancing national sovereignty, human capital, and transfer of knowledge.

Official delegation at DIMDEX 2018

Following the speeches, H.E. Dr. Khalid bin Mohamed Al-Attiyah presented His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani with a ceremonial shield, followed by a tour around the participating stands at the exhibition viewing the latest defence equipment, tools and systems.

The Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference 2018 runs from 12 to 14 March at the Qatar National Convention Center. In its sixth edition, DIMDEX 2018 is celebrating its 10th anniversary, under the theme “World-Class Platform for Technology, Maritime & Defence Industry Capabilities.” At the exhibition, DIMDEX is featuring many activities including the Middle East Naval Commanders Conference, which will be held tomorrow March 13th, the exhibiting of the visiting warships at the Hamad Port, as well as VIP and senior officials visits from various parts of the world.

The Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference is considered one of the region’s leading events that reaffirms the importance of mutual benefits related to global security and defence. The event offers industry leaders valuable information about the protection of vital maritime infrastructure and commercial roads which global economies depend on. DIMDEX also supports in the strengthening of Doha’s position as a business hub by attracting visitors, exhibitors, decision makers, and VIP members from across the world. DIMDEX also offers global companies exceptional trading and business opportunities in vital and active markets.

Barzan Holding was officially launched today during DIMDEX 2018, and was established by Ministry of Defence aimed at enhancing military capabilities and investment in the defence industry. The company would also support research and development efforts in the field of military technology.