Doha: The Organising Committee of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026) has announced Fincantieri, one of the world's leading shipbuilding groups, as the Diamond Sponsor for the ninth edition of the show, which will be held under the esteemed patronage of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, and hosted and organised by the Qatar Armed Forces. The four-day event is scheduled to take place from Jan. 19 to 22, 2026 at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC).
According to Qatar News Agency, DIMDEX is positioned as a premier platform for expertise and commercial exchange among leading defence companies, international investors, and key decision-makers. It offers participants exclusive access to the latest technological advancements, next-generation defence systems, and state-of-the-art maritime equipment, enabling them to assess innovations that are shaping the future of global security and defence. Beyond serving as a gateway to advanced solutions in the maritime defence sector, the event will not only highlight Qatar's pivotal role in advancing global defence cooperation, but also create an environment that stimulates investment, innovation, and long-term partnerships across the sector.
In addition, DIMDEX 2026 is recognised as a comprehensive forum that fosters high-level discussions and strategic dialogue on critical security challenges arising in an increasingly complex global landscape. The signing ceremony was held at the Ministry of Defence in the presence of HE Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces Lt. Gen. (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed Al Mannai, and high representatives from the two parties including Qatar Country Manager at Fincantieri Aldo Zizzo.
The agreement was signed by Chairman of the DIMDEX Organising Committee Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Saleh Al Ansari, and SVP Director Sales Naval Vessel at Fincantieri Mauro Manzini. HE Lt Gen (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed Al Mannai, Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces, emphasized Qatar's commitment to shaping the defence and security landscape of tomorrow through investment in advanced technologies and strategic cooperation with international partners.
Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Saleh Al Ansari expressed enthusiasm for the continued partnership with Fincantieri, highlighting the exhibition's significance as a platform for advancing global maritime capabilities. CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri Pierroberto Folgiero reiterated the company's commitment to supporting DIMDEX and noted the importance of fostering dialogue and building strategic partnerships.
Fincantieri has delivered a total of seven state-of-the-art naval vessels to the Qatar Emiri Naval Forces, supported by comprehensive In-Service Support, Integrated Logistic Support, and Industrial and operative training programmes for the crew. This enduring partnership reflects Fincantieri's commitment to long-term collaboration and operational excellence in the region.
With over 230 years of history and more than 7,000 ships built, Fincantieri is a leader in the construction of cruise ships, naval and offshore vessels. DIMDEX continues its mission to provide a premier platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies and fostering strategic dialogues essential for bolstering security and defence at both national and international levels.