The Organising Committee of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026) has declared MBDA, a leader in the complex weapon systems sector, as the Gold Sponsor for its ninth edition. Scheduled from 19 to 22 January 2026 at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC), the event is backed by His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, and the Qatar Armed Forces.
DIMDEX is recognised internationally as a critical venue for the exchange of expertise, fostering of technological innovations, and building strategic collaborations among defence industry figures, stakeholders, investors, and military officials. MBDA's sponsorship underscores the ongoing partnership with DIMDEX, enhancing the company's platform to present its latest technological advancements.
Signing ceremony details
The agreement marking this sponsorship was formalised with a signing ceremony at the Ministry of Defence
The agreement marking this sponsorship was formalised with a signing ceremony at the Ministry of Defence, attended by notable figures, including HE Lt Gen (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed Al Mannai, Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces.
The signing was officiated by Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Saleh Al-Ansari, Chairman of the DIMDEX Organising Committee, and Toby Broughton, General Manager of MBDA Qatar.
HE Lt Gen (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed Al Mannai emphasised the importance of international collaboration in addressing complex security challenges, advocating for partnerships that enhance shared capabilities. Likewise, Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Saleh Al-Ansari expressed honour in welcoming MBDA, highlighting DIMDEX's role in fostering global defence cooperation and offering platforms for direct engagement with key decision-makers.
MBDA's commitment to defence innovation
Toby Broughton applauded the continued relationship with Qatar, affirming MBDA's long-standing commitment to supporting the Qatar Armed Forces with their missile system expertise.
MBDA, noted as the sole European group designing comprehensive weapon systems for land, sea
MBDA, noted as the sole European group designing comprehensive weapon systems for land, sea, and air, remains dedicated to fulfilling national defence needs through technological excellence and cooperative efforts.
DIMDEX is not only a prominent defence exhibition but also a strategic hub for promoting innovation and establishing partnerships crucial for reinforcing global security. The event serves as a catalyst for investment and sustainable collaboration, showcasing Qatar's leading role in maritime defence evolution.
Comprehensive sponsorship and industry participation
In addition to MBDA, sponsors like Estithmar Holding, Vodafone, Boeing, and CAE stand as testament to DIMDEX's significance within the business and security sectors.
Their participation reinforces the exhibition as a vital forum for innovation, collaboration, and industry engagement.
The Organising Committee of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026) has announced MBDA, a world pioneer in the field of complex weapon systems, as the Gold Sponsor for the ninth edition of the exhibition, taking place from 19 to 22 January 2026 at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC).
Held under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of the State of Qatar, Head of State and Supreme Commander of Qatar Armed Forces, and hosted and organised by the Qatar Armed Forces, DIMDEX stands as one of the world’s foremost defence and security exhibitions.
DIMDEX serves as a key platform
The event continues to serve as a global platform for expertise exchange, technological innovation, and strategic collaboration among defence industry leaders, industry stakeholders, international investors, and senior military officials.
MBDA’s Gold Sponsorship of DIMDEX 2026 highlights the event’s pioneering global position and the enduring relationship between the two parties, with DIMDEX serving as a key platform for the company to showcase its latest innovations. It also underscores the significance of international cooperation in the field of advanced defence systems.
Signing ceremony
The signing ceremony took place at the Ministry of Defence, in the presence of HE Lt Gen (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed Al Mannai, Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces. The agreement was signed by Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Saleh Al-Ansari, Chairman of the DIMDEX Organising Committee and Toby Broughton, General Manager, MBDA Qatar.
HE Lt Gen (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed Al Mannai, Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces, stated: “Today’s security environment is defined by complexity, interdependence, and rapid transformation. In such times, collaboration and shared purpose are essential to addressing challenges that transcend borders. The pursuit of stability is best achieved through dialogue, innovation, and enduring partnerships that strengthen our collective capabilities. We welcome these international collaborations that reinforce the foundations of security and prosperity.”
Advancing international defence cooperation
Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Saleh Al-Ansari, Chairman of the DIMDEX Organising Committee, said: “We are honoured to welcome MBDA once again as a Gold Sponsor of DIMDEX 2026, reflecting our strategic relationship and mutual trust. MBDA’s continued participation demonstrates the long-standing collaboration that underpins DIMDEX’s role as a platform for advancing international defence cooperation, while offering a valuable opportunity to showcase their latest innovations and technologies directly to key decision-makers."
"This reflects DIMDEX crucial role in facilitating global partnerships, expanding investment opportunities, and securing unparalleled commercial and business opportunities”.
Role in securing national defence requirements
Toby Broughton, General Manager, MBDA Qatar added: “MBDA is delighted to once again be a Gold Sponsor for the ninth edition of DIMDEX, reaffirming our long-standing commitment to the Qatar Armed Forces. For over 50 years, MBDA has been a trusted and proud partner to Qatar and is privileged to have supported the Qatar Armed Forces with our world-leading missile system capabilities. We look forward to another successful exhibition, and to our continued support for this strategic partner.”
MBDA is the only European group capable of designing and manufacturing complex weapon systems for all three-armed forces: land, sea, and air. The company plays a vital role in securing national defence requirements and promoting technological excellence through collaboration and innovation.
Advancing global security and shaping the future
DIMDEX is a premier international event on the global maritime defence and security calendar. Beyond its role as an exhibition, it serves as a strategic platform for showcasing innovation, forging partnerships, and facilitating high-level dialogue, which is vital to strengthening defence cooperation at both national and international levels.
By promoting investment, innovation and sustainable collaboration, DIMDEX continues to underline Qatar’s pivotal role in advancing global security and shaping the future of maritime defence.
DIMDEX 2026 has also garnered strong support and sponsorship from renowned companies: Estithmar Holding, Vodafone, Boeing, and CAE. Their participation highlights the event’s significance within various business sectors and underscores the value of DIMDEX as a platform for collaboration, innovation, and engagement.
