Artificial intelligence-enabled drones, flying robots, border security systems and other scientific and technological developments will be showcased in two exhibitions in Abu Dhabi.

The three-day Unmanned Systems Exhibition (UMEX 2020) and Simulation and Training Exhibition (SimTEX 2020) will also discuss futuristic ways on how humans and machines will work together with best practices and eye-popping displays. The largest-ever exhibition and the only event in the Middle East dedicated to unmanned systems, simulation and training will highlight the UAE’s leading role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, officials said.

Organised by Adnec in cooperation with the Ministry of Defence and the Supreme Command of the UAE Armed Forces, the expo will see 200 official delegations, 163 exhibitors – both up 33 per cent from 2018 – and 63 national companies showcase latest innovations to the world.

Apart from twin expos, there will be a conference themed ‘Manned-Unmanned Teaming in the Age of Smart Systems’, said Major-General Staff Pilot Ali Mohammed Musleh Al Ahbabi, chairman, Higher Organising Committee of UMEX and SimTEX 2020 and conference.

He noted the event is in line with the UAE’s vision and strategy for the future, including UAE AI Strategy 2031.

“The two exhibitions support the goals of the ‘2020: Towards the next 50’. The exhibitions promote the UAE’s position as a global hub for technology and innovation, in line with the global trends towards embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution.”

Border security systems

Staff Brigadier Khalifa Ali Al Kaabi, deputy chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of the exhibitions and conference, said there will be four keynote sessions and four-panel discussions with 21 national and international speakers from 11 countries at the conference held on Saturday, a day before the expo. The conference will cover four themes – human dimension, missions and operations, industry and market and border security.

“Border security has been added as one of the main topics for debate and discussions. Experts and decision-makers on the border security sector will discuss the implications of the digital age on joint action in ports and border security as well as its new intellectual approach in the light of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.”

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, managing director and Group CEO, Adnec and its subsidiaries, noted 30 countries were participating and the exhibition space was increased by 40 per cent. “On its first-ever participation, the General Authority for the Security of Ports, Borders and Free Zones will participate with the third-largest pavilion and hosting more than 25 exhibitors. We expect to attract more than 18,000 visitors.”

Mohamed Bin Zayed International Robotics Challenge (MBZIRC) organised by Khalifa University and the series of artificial intelligence and robotic competitions by the Ministry of Education are held parallel to the exhibitions. As many as 34 teams will vie for $5 million prizes at the MBZIRC. More than 400 robotics experts from across the world will be part of three challenges and a triathlon type Grand Challenge, all focusing on innovating robotic solutions for smart city applications.