The biennial International Defence Exhibition and Conference (Idex), the world’s leading joint defence exhibition, has expanded the exhibiting space and allocated an area for unmanned systems for the upcoming event in Abu Dhabi.

The 12th edition of Idex conference, organised by Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec) in association with the UAE Armed Forces GHQ, will take place February 22 to 26 at Adnec.

Major General Dr Obaid Al Ketbi, chairman of the Organizing Committee for Idex 2015, yesterday (January 10) reviewed key preparatory activities for the grand opening ceremony and the conference agenda.

The committee also reviewed the military commissions’ tasks and the latest developments related to Idex, Navdex and Umex which will run alongside Idex.

The meeting which witnessed participation from Ali Saeed Bin Harmal, Adnec managing director and Saleh Al Marzooqi, CEO Idex, discussed key activities and key features of the grand opening ceremony of the event.

Umex which is held for the first time alongside Idex 2015 will provide a remarkable platform showcasing the latest innovations in the defence industry particularly in the unmanned defence systems space and is an area of key focus globally.

Umex will for the first time showcase a live demonstration of unmanned systems and vehicles in the Middle East and Africa region. The live demonstration during the opening ceremony will be held at ‘Tarif’ in the Western Region of Abu Dhabi.

“This edition of Idex will witness a never seen before grand opening ceremony,” said Dr Al Ketbi.

“The team is highly invested in preparing and choreographing a unique showcase of what Idex has to offer. It is our pride to be hosting an event of this stature and providing our stakeholders with a platform that brings together delegates from across the world to foster international cooperation.

“Along with Idex, Navdex and Umex we aim to offer a diverse platform to highlight the latest technologies in the defence industry,” he added.

“The defence industry has grown in nature to develop and support multiple infrastructures beyond military,” said Al Marzooqi.

“At Idex, we work to ensure that every edition keeps pace with the forefront of industry innovations and market requirements. Idex is the largest defence exhibition in the Mena region demonstrating the latest technologies, products, services and complete defence solutions across land, sea and air sectors of defence. This global event is sponsored by Tawazun, the strategic partner of the exhibition.”

During the meeting, Idex also displayed its gratitude and appreciation towards the ‘Guardians of the Nation’ campaign, launched by Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum on his accession day to pay homage to the UAE Armed Forces.

Idex 2015 will feature the third edition of Navdex, the maritime security show that has quickly become the largest naval defence exhibition in the region, along with the first edition of Umex, an unmanned systems technology show designed as an ideal business platform to promote and showcase the modern era of defence.

Idex, Navdex & Umex demonstrate the latest defence technologies across land, sea and air. It is a unique platform to establish and strengthen relationships with government departments, businesses and armed forces. In 2013 the Idex and Navdex attracted 1,112 exhibiting companies and over 80,000 visitors. – TradeArabia News Service