Abu Dhabi, UAE – SteelFab 2026, the world’s largest steel and iron exhibition, which runs until tomorrow at Expo Centre Abu Dhabi, has launched its “EtherX” platform. This platform creates a “digital twin” to the event, allowing exhibitors to maintain a presence and connect with a global audience long after the exhibition concludes. SteelFab is also the first exhibition in the UAE and the region to adopt AI-powered digital exhibition technology. While the exhibition continues, the new platform enables exhibitors to build and manage their digital booths and effectively showcase their products and services. It also allows them to explore buyer trends and interact with visitors before, during, and after the exhibition. The platform provides access to customer feedback and comprehensive insights and analytics through a central dashboard. This service helps manufacturers stay informed about the latest trends in the iron and steel industry.
His Excellency Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah, said: “The launch of the AI-powered digital twin platform for the exhibition represents a significant leap forward for SteelFab and reflects our unwavering commitment to adopting the latest technologies to enhance the experience for both exhibitors and visitors. We aim for this pioneering step to position SteelFab at the forefront of specialized exhibitions in the region and open new horizons for communication and interaction. This further transcends the need for customers, buyers, and major manufacturers to adhere to the physical event schedule. This, in turn, solidifies Sharjah’s position as a leading regional hub for innovation in the exhibitions and events industry.” SteelFab 2026, the largest event in the metalworking sector in the Middle East and North Africa, brings together more than 600 brands and 350 exhibitors from 35 countries across 25,000 square meters. They showcase the latest machinery and equipment, from welding and cutting solutions to pipe manufacturing technologies and sheet metal preparation. In addition, there are live demonstrations of cutting-edge industrial technologies. The EtherX digital platform allows for the continued presentation and accessibility of this technology to buyers and interested parties worldwide after the event concludes. The exhibition provides factories and companies operating in metal forming with opportunities to make deals, exchange experiences and establish strategic partnerships.
