UMEX -SimTEX 2018 conclude on high note

ABU DHABI, 27th February, 2018 (WAM) -- The third editions of the Unmanned Systems Exhibition and Conference (UMEX 2018) and Simulation Exhibition and Conference (SimTEX 2018), held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, wrapped up today at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) The final day of the dual event featured exciting live flying performances by unmanned aircraft at Al Ain International Airport. Drawing the participation of 9 local and international companies, 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. Drawing the participation of 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 AED878.371 million worth defence deals were signed by the Armed Forces with specialised local and international events. In addition to drawing the participation of 12,400 visitors, the dual event was attended by 419 media representatives who covered various activities over three days 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 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 with 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 made by 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." UMEX and SimTEX 2018 also included a specialised conference themed ‘Focusing Next-Generation Technologies on Tomorrow’s Threats’ that drew the participation of leading local and international military experts, academics, industry professionals and decision makers. The conference featured three sessions to identify the emerging trends, issues and threats in unmanned systems sector. It also highlighted the operational capabilities, theoretical aspects and innovative concepts across defence and commercial applications of simulations and training technologies. UMEX and SimTEX 2018 attracted a record international participation from major global defence-related companies representing 34 countries compared to 23 countries in 2016. In addition to offering a combined exhibition area of 17,000 square metres, up from 13,000 in 2016, the dual event also attracted 122 companies, compared to 91 companies in 2016.