Abu dhabi: H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs and Chairman of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council, has inaugurated the seventh editions of the Unmanned Systems Exhibition (UMEX 2026) and the Simulation and Training Exhibition (SimTEX 2026), which are being held at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi and will run until 22nd January.
According to Emirates News Agency, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed toured several pavilions showcasing the latest technological trends in robotics, unmanned aerial systems, and smart control systems. The exhibitions also highlight advanced applications of simulation and artificial intelligence, with participation from both local and international companies, as well as public and private sector entities.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed reviewed innovative solutions and advanced technologies that demonstrate rapid advancements in unmanned systems and simulation. These technologies play a significant role in enhancing the readiness of civilian, commercial, and defence sectors to meet future requirements.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed stressed the strategic importance of adopting advanced technological solutions across priority sectors to ensure future-readiness. This approach aims to strengthen the preparedness of the national economic ecosystem, supporting high-precision industries and long-term sustainable development.
The inauguration was attended by Sheikh Hamdan bin Saeed bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan; Faisal Abdulaziz Al Bannai, Adviser to the UAE President for Strategic Research and Advanced Technology Affairs; Mohamed bin Mubarak Fadhel Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Defence Affairs; and Lieutenant General Issa Saif bin Ablan Al Mazrouei, Chief of Staff of the UAE Armed Forces.
UMEX 2026 and SimTEX 2026 are organised by ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence, Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement, and supported by the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council. EDGE Group is a strategic partner, with contributions from the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility).
The exhibitions feature live demonstrations and interactive experiences, showcasing air-, land-, and sea-based unmanned systems. They also provide platforms for start-ups and foster global dialogue on AI, cybersecurity, and technology governance, reinforcing the exhibitions' role in driving industry growth and innovation.
With participation from over 375 leading local and international companies and experts from 38 countries, the exhibitions serve as a venue for exchanging expertise across various civilian sectors such as smart agriculture, healthcare, logistics, and infrastructure development, alongside military applications like ISR technologies and advanced logistics systems.