by Maryam Ferdowsi
16 oct 2023
On Monday, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, officially launched GITEX GLOBAL at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). This event, recognized as the world’s largest technology exhibition, has drawn more than 6,000 exhibitors from 180 countries. The showcase highlights the UAE’s leadership in fostering international collaboration and innovation in the tech sector.
Sheikh Mohammed underscored the event’s significance, stating that for over 40 years, GITEX has been a meeting ground for innovators and tech professionals from across the globe. He emphasized how these interactions have led to partnerships that have driven advancements in technology, ultimately benefiting humanity.
This year’s GITEX GLOBAL is set to bring key players in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and cloud technology under one roof. Over five days, AI-related innovations will take center stage, with more than 1,000 companies focusing on the transformative role AI is playing across industries. The event also includes the largest-ever cybersecurity gathering, known as GITEX Cyber Valley.
Additionally, Sheikh Mohammed toured exhibits from global tech giants, including Microsoft, Huawei, and IBM, engaging with their leaders and learning about the latest innovations on display. He was also briefed on Etisalat’s groundbreaking 5G Stand Alone network, marking another technological milestone for the UAE.
Running parallel to GITEX is the Expand North Star event, the world’s largest startup exhibition, which is taking place at Dubai Harbour. Featuring over 1,800 startups from around the globe, this event will provide a platform for new entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in one of the world’s most dynamic digital economies.
The exhibition space for GITEX GLOBAL and Expand North Star spans a combined 2.7 million square feet, marking a 40% expansion from last year, further solidifying Dubai’s role as a central hub in the global tech landscape.
This year’s event also introduced GITEX Impact and the Future Urbanism Expo, both focusing on sustainable development and climate technology as the world prepares for COP28. Top global names such as Google, Dell Technologies, and Salesforce are set to debut new innovations at the event.
This gathering not only reinforces Dubai’s commitment to technological progress but also opens doors for new collaborations, driving a future shaped by AI, cybersecurity, and digital innovation.