GITEX GLOBAL to Spotlight AI Economy in Dubai
GITEX GLOBAL, one of the world's largest technology exhibitions, is set to return to Dubai for its 44th edition, cementing its position as a cornerstone event in the global tech calendar. The conference, scheduled from 14-18 October at Dubai World Trade Centre, comes at a pivotal moment for the technology industry, with artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly reshaping business landscapes across sectors.
This year’s event, themed ‘Global Collaboration to Forge a Future AI Economy,’ reflects the industry's shifting focus towards AI technologies and their economic implications. The emphasis on AI aligns with recent market projections and increased investment in the field by major tech companies and startups alike.
Fortune Business Insights forecasts the global AI market will reach US$621bn in 2024 and grow to US$2.7tn by 2032. This rapid expansion has prompted GITEX GLOBAL to centre its programming around AI and its applications across various sectors.
Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President of Dubai World Trade Centre, the event organiser, said: “At GITEX GLOBAL in Dubai, we shall close the year with significant manoeuvres from our tech community by doubling down on global collaborations and intensive engagements amongst all involved.”
This year’s event will feature over 3,500 enterprises showcasing innovations in AI, Internet of Things (IoT), data analytics and cloud computing. Major technology companies participating include Adobe, Alibaba Cloud, Amazon Web Services, Dell, Google, Huawei, IBM, Microsoft and Nvidia.
Expanded international participation
This year’s GITEX GLOBAL has seen a 40% increase in international participation, reflecting growing interest from emerging digital economies. The event will host over 400 government and digital development agencies from around the world.
European participation has reached a record high, with more than 35 countries exhibiting. New participants include Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Portugal, Serbia and Slovenia.
Latin American and Asian countries are also contributing to the increased international presence. Singapore, Malaysia, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan will make their debut appearances alongside regular participants such as China, Japan, South Korea and India.
Startup and investment focus
Running concurrently with GITEX GLOBAL is Expand North Star, billed as the world's largest startup and investment show. The event, held at Dubai Harbour from 13-16 October, is hosted by Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy and organised by Dubai World Trade Centre.
Expand North Star aims to connect global founders with new markets, enterprise customers, and investors. The event claims to have attracted investors with over US$1.2tn in Assets Under Management, including venture capital firms SOSV, Bessemer Ventures and Lightrock.
The Supernova Challenge 2.0, described as the world's largest startup pitch competition, will take place during the event, offering a $200,000 prize pool for winners.
Local tech sector growth
TECOM Group PJSC, a Dubai-based business district operator, will mark its 25th consecutive year at GITEX GLOBAL. Ammar Al Malik, Executive Vice President of Commercial at TECOM Group PJSC and Managing Director of Dubai Internet City, said: “Dubai's pro-innovation frameworks are the bedrock of tech advancements that serve a greater purpose. GITEX GLOBAL is a springboard to unlock this potential, and as the region's leading tech hub, Dubai Internet City has been a proud partner for decades in its mission towards a brighter future.”
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