Mohammed bin Rashid directs that “GITEX Tech-Cation 2026” be the largest global event in the field of technology and artificial intelligence.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, may God protect him, directed that “GITEX Tech-Cation” next year, under the follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Chairman of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Dubai, will be the largest global event in the field of technology and artificial intelligence, as a new qualitative addition offered by Dubai to reshape the features of the global scene. For technical events, and to consolidate its position as a global destination for innovation and investment, with the event being held during the period from 7 to 11 December 2026 in Expo City Dubai.

In the first steps in preparing for the largest and first of its kind global event in the world, the Dubai World Trade Center, the event organizer, and the Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai signed a strategic partnership agreement to support and enhance the first version of the “GITEX Tech-Cation” experience in the city of Dubai. The agreement was signed by Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, affiliated with the Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai, and Trixie Loh Mirmand, Executive Vice President of Dubai World Trade Centre, the global organizer of GITEX.

The partnership allows GITEX to benefit from the extensive network of the Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai in the fields of hospitality, tourism and culture to design distinct programs, campaigns and experiences in conjunction with “Tech-Cation”, transforming Dubai during the period of the event into a vibrant center that combines technology, investment, culture and tourism in a unique and integrated experience.

An enriching experience

The event, with its new concept, contributes to encouraging the extension of stays for delegations and expanding professional networking circles, by inviting senior executives and international investors to enjoy a rich experience that embodies Dubai’s diversity and vitality, from its global scene in the hospitality sector to its areas thriving with arts and culture, through sporting and health events and various outdoor activities, with the opportunity to enjoy the luxurious lifestyle on the facades. The city’s distinctive marine life, which contributes to strengthening Dubai’s position as the best city in the world to live, work and visit.

Bus march

On this occasion, Issam Kazim, Executive Director of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, said: “The directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and the follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, lay a clear foundation for an intensive action plan that we are pleased to be partners in implementing to organize the largest event of its kind in the world. The GITEX exhibition has witnessed fundamental developments during its journey.” The bus has gone beyond being a technology exhibition, to today become a leading international platform that embodies the ambitions of innovation and digital transformation. In this new phase, which begins within the framework of the sound directives of the wise leadership, the event is moving towards enhancing its status, importance and influence on the global arena.”

He added: “The launch of ‘GITEX Tech-Cation’ represents a strategic step that embodies the integration between technical progress and the modern lifestyle that is unique to Dubai, which enhances its attractiveness as a leading global destination for business and entertainment, which is in line with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. It will also contribute to developing visitors’ experiences, and enabling technology companies to communicate and work together to explore new and innovative opportunities.”
His Excellency explained that, in preparation for organizing this new experience during the coming year, work and coordination will continue with the Dubai World Trade Center and all concerned parties from the public and private sectors, to ensure that the first session of “GITEX Tech-Cation” provides an unprecedented experience that shows Dubai as an inspiring destination for communication, innovation, and engaging in future experiences.
A qualitative transformation
For her part, Trixie Loh Mirmand, Executive Vice President of the Dubai World Trade Center, said: “We are committed to the directives of the wise leadership to make GITEX Tech-Cation the largest event of its kind in the world, an addition that will create a qualitative shift in the concept of global technology events, while presenting a bold vision that sets new standards in ways of communication and innovation for the international technology community in one of the most important cities in the world.” In preparation for the future. Moving away from traditional halls, this step evokes Dubai’s renewed energy with its vibrant culture and exceptional lifestyle, embodying the philosophy of “Work Smart… and Celebrate Life” with a comprehensive interactive experience that extends throughout the entire city.”

Celebrating technology in the world’s most attractive tourist destination

The idea of ​​”GITEX Tech-Cation” stems from the growing attractiveness of Dubai and the UAE to visitors from all over the world, as Dubai was crowned the best global destination in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards, the largest travel platform in the world, for three consecutive years from 2022 to 2024, which Consolidating its position as a preferred destination for international visitors.

Supporting the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33

The GITEX Tech-Cation experience reflects the ambitions of Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda, which aims to consolidate its position among the top three cities in the world by 2033. By integrating the largest global technology and investment network within the emirate’s tourism and cultural landscape, the campaign strengthens Dubai’s position as a global destination attractive for talent, foreign direct investment and trade.

In terms of investment, Dubai topped the world’s cities in attracting new foreign direct investment projects during the first half of 2025, maintaining its position as a leading global center for foreign direct investment for the eighth time in a row. It also maintained its position as the best city in the world for remote work, according to the “Nomad Executive” index for the year 2024 issued by the real estate consulting company Savills, which confirms Dubai’s growing attractiveness for entrepreneurs, technical talent, and international investors.