Dubai is set to develop the world’s largest technology and artificial intelligence event, Gitex TechCation 2026, following a directive from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The inaugural event, previously announced by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, will take place at Expo City Dubai from 7 to 11 December next year.
The new initiative aims to bring together leading technology companies, startups, investors, and innovators for a citywide celebration of technology and creativity.
A Citywide Immersive Experience
To facilitate this ambitious project, the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) have signed a strategic partnership. The collaboration will leverage the emirate’s extensive tourism and cultural networks to create immersive programmes and campaigns for attendees.
This approach is designed to move the event beyond conventional exhibition halls, spreading activities and experiences across the entire city. It represents a fundamental shift in how large-scale technology gatherings are hosted, integrating the event directly into the urban environment.
Integrating Tech with Tourism
The programme supports DET’s objective to make Dubai the premier city to visit, live, and work by encouraging longer stays among event participants. The city’s established appeal to international visitors makes it a prime location for such a global gathering. Dubai was ranked number one worldwide in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards for three consecutive years from 2022 to 2024, a global first.
The city’s growing culinary reputation also adds to its appeal, with the 2025 Michelin Guide featuring 119 restaurants, including 19 with Michelin Stars. This combination of world-class infrastructure and lifestyle offerings provides a strong foundation for the TechCation concept, which aligns with emerging trends as UAE residents plan to travel next year.
Supporting Dubai’s Economic Vision
Gitex TechCation is a key component of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to establish the emirate among the world’s top three global cities by 2033. By embedding a major tech and investor network within its tourism landscape, Dubai seeks to strengthen its position as a global destination for talent, commerce, and foreign direct investment.
The city’s economic strategy has already yielded significant results. Dubai ranked first globally for the number of Greenfield FDI projects it attracted in the first half of 2025, marking the eighth consecutive half-year period it has held the top spot. Its standing as a magnet for entrepreneurs and tech talent is further confirmed by its number one ranking in Savills’ Executive Nomad Index, complementing its status as the world’s largest licensed market for virtual assets.
