H.E. Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, stressed that International Defence Conference (IDEX) reflects the wise leadership’s vision towards promoting the position of Abu Dhabi on the global defense industries map. As well as creating more economic opportunities and revenues as part of the implementation of the emirate’s ambitious plans for more economic diversification and enhancing its competitiveness in all sectors. 

Commenting on the launch of the International DefenceConference and Exhibition (IDEX 2021) on February 21, 2021 under a generous auspices of H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State, H.E. Mohamed Ali Al Shorafasaid, “(IDEX) embodies the capability of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi to host one of the largest military defense exhibitions in the world, especially, with the current changes and repercussions of (COVID-19) Pandemic on the world nations.

H.E. indicated that “IDEX”, since its launch, has become a new resource for the national income of the UAE, as it contributes to creating new opportunities for the national defense industries as well as launching a leading platform for global defense industries, which in turn promotes the position of Abu Dhabi in the field of defense equipment trade at both regional and international levels.

H.E. the Chairman of ADDED noted that, “We are seeking to provide all means of support for (IDEX) Exhibition through the joint efforts with TAWAZUN Economic Council with the aim of promoting the economic sector in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi in a manner that helps provide all the means and enablers that guarantee the creation of an advanced industrial base that serves the defense sector as well as the various vital sectors in the emirate.”

He affirmed that “IDEX” Exhibition reflects the strength and firmness of the UAE’s economy, and its ability to achieve continuous and sustainable growth, as the defense industries fall within a strategic orientation that targets the diversification of economy as well as adding robust growth drivers, which in turn has given the Exhibition a significant economic value that is marked by revenues resulting from the massive transactions, which are concluded between the States and global corporations during the Exhibition.

H.E. pointed out that the wise political attitudes of the leadership and government of the UAE are based upon the values of building, development as well as achieving security and stability within its regional and international perimeter. As “IDEX” represents a key trajectory for promoting the values of tolerance and partnership as well as consolidating the foundations of security and stability, indicating that the Exhibition is considereda significant platform for bringing together the companies concerned with the defense equipment. As well as the concerned experts in the field to exchange views around the best ways to confront the dangers that threaten the international peace and stability, in addition to driving ahead the development and growth process in different fields.

H.E. Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of ADDED, stressed that the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the UAE in general possess the full potential that qualifies it to achieve leadership in the defense industries in the future through the major support provided by the wise leadership as part of driving the innovation and investment process in the national cadres that are capable of contributing to develop the various advanced defense industries on the land of the UAE.

H.E. concluded his statement indicating, “We rely on (IDEX) Exhibition to make industrial and economic progress in Abu Dhabi and the UAE during the current circumstances. And from our part, we will collaborate with and support the efforts of the entities organizing the Exhibition as well as all the concerned bodies in order to make its activities successful and highlight the potential and capabilities of Abu Dhabi and its vision in such vital sector.