DIMDEX 2026: Qatar hosts global naval defence summit amid rising Gulf tensions

Weapons manufacturers and military delegations from around the world are in Qatar for one of the Middle East’s largest defence gatherings, the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition (DIMDEX). This year’s event stands out not only for the scale of military hardware on display, but also for its timing amid heightened geopolitical tensions from the Gulf to the Red Sea. DIMDEX focuses on next-generation naval technologies, integrated defence systems and the need for fast, data-driven responses on the battlefield. Recent regional incidents, including missile activity d to tensions with Iran, underline the growing importance of maritime security. But the exhibition is more than a showcase of equipment; it reinforces Qatar’s role as a global diplomatic convener and deal-making hub for defence leaders. The gathering provides a snapshot of shifting alliances, military modernisation and how power is being projected along critical sea routes. Al Jazeera’s Alex Baird reports from Doha. Subscribe to our channel: http://bit.ly/AJSubscribe Follow us on X: https://twitter.com/AJEnglish Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aljazeera Check our website: http://www.aljazeera.com/ Check out our Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/aljazeeraenglish/ Download AJE Mobile App: https://aje.news/AJEMobile #DIMDEX #DIMDEX2026 #DohaDefenseExpo #NavalTech #MaritimeSecurity #MiddleEastTensions #DefenseExhibition #QatarDefense #NavalModernisation #IntegratedDefense #MilitaryDelegations #DefenseDeals #GulfSecurity #RedSeaSecurity #NavalPower