ABDULLA MOHAMED AL HAMMADI*
The UAE has long been a global hub for business, hosting major events and activities and connecting East and West. It stands as one of the world’s leading destinations for specialised exhibitions, conferences, and events. With the nation’s leadership in technology and AI, it serves as a meeting point for future-oriented thinking and a showcase for the latest technologies.
The World Future Economy Digital Leaders Summit is taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre alongside GITEX Global 44, the world’s largest technology event. This year’s summit boasts unprecedented international participation, with significant representation from Europe, the US, Japan, South Korea, China, and Russia-the largest in GITEX’s history. More than 6,500 companies, 1,800 startups, 1,200 investors, and government representatives from over 180 countries are participating, including tech giants like Microsoft, IBM, Huawei, Oracle, G42, and others.
All these participants have gathered in the UAE to explore the future of economic transformation powered by computing and AI. Key focus areas include investment in technology, the next-generation semiconductor market, data governance, and global collaboration in shaping the digital economy. GITEX serves as a unique platform for fostering cooperation, launching innovative solutions, and building cross-continental partnerships, all aimed at accelerating AI-driven social and economic transformation worldwide.
The event comes as the UAE intensifies its efforts to leverage AI across diverse industries. In 2023, the country’s AI market was valued at $3.47 billion, with ongoing initiatives to increase the technology sector’s contribution to the national economy. The UAE firmly believes that technology will drive transformative advancements in both human life and the global economy.
GITEX offers a comprehensive platform for discussing all aspects of AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, the Internet of Things, quantum computing, augmented reality, virtual reality, mobility, and sustainability. It brings together top startups, venture capital investors, and global tech leaders to explore in Dubai new growth opportunities, reflecting the high level of international trust in the event. The UAE’s position as a hub for innovation and creativity further reinforces its role in making GITEX a success.
In the global race for digital supremacy, collaboration is crucial for developing competitive advantages. International participation at GITEX continues to grow, positioning the event as a launchpad for tremendous technological potential. The global AI market, expected to reach $621 billion by 2024, is projected to skyrocket to $2.7 trillion by 2032.
Amid AI’s rapid development, GITEX provides the perfect platform to explore its transformative impact on the global economy. AI is not merely another technology; it is a key driver reshaping industries across the board. What makes GITEX unique is its focus on real-world AI applications across various sectors, encouraging innovation and fostering partnerships between startups, established corporations, and governments.
The UAE’s ability to attract leading tech companies, top talent, and major investment firms in the AI and technology sectors underscores its ambition and efforts to be a global leader in digital innovation and technological advances. With a strong legislative and regulatory framework for business establishment, the UAE has positioned itself as a preferred destination for companies investing in technology and shaping the future of global industries.
*The author is the Head of Advisory Sector at TRENDS Research & Advisory