The world’s largest technology and startup event, GITEX GLOBAL, returns next week for its 44th edition, promising to revolutionise the digital economy and artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem. Set to take place from October 14 to 18 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the event is geared to become a global hub for AI advancements.
This year’s theme, “Global Collaboration to Forge a Future AI Economy”, highlights the summit’s goal of accelerating AI integration across various sectors. With participation from the largest tech companies, governments, and thought leaders from over 180 countries, GITEX GLOBAL is positioned to be the epicentre of digital transformation.
Running concurrently from October 13 to 16 is Expand North Star, the world’s largest startup and investment show, hosted at Dubai Harbour. Organised by DWTC and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, the event brings together over 6,500 exhibitors, 1,800 startups, and 1,200 investors.
GITEX: A Platform for Global AI Collaboration
GITEX GLOBAL 2024 will showcase over 3,500 companies leading the way in AI, Internet of Things (IoT), data, and cloud technology. The summit is expected to boost international partnerships, offering a space for dialogue on the future of AI in industries such as healthcare, finance, and education.
Among the key players is TECOM Group PJSC, which celebrates its 25th consecutive year at the event. Ammar Al Malik, Executive Vice President at TECOM Group PJSC, highlighted Dubai’s role as a tech hub, stating:
“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.”
Abu Dhabi will also play a key role at the event, with contributions from major firms such as the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) and the G42 Group, reinforcing the emirate’s growing presence in the global AI landscape.
GITEX: AI’s Future Economic Impact
The AI market is projected to soar from $621 billion in 2024 to $2.7 trillion by 2032, according to Fortune Business Insights. As AI takes centre stage, experts will discuss the rapid growth of data storage demands, AI-driven financial technologies, and green energy investments.
Tech industry giants such as Adobe, Huawei, Microsoft, Google, Alibaba Cloud, and Dell will participate, contributing to over 120 hours of AI-focused content, including panels on digital finance and future health.
Looking ahead, GITEX GLOBAL 2024 will introduce the largest Data Centre Symposium in the region, featuring prominent companies like Schneider Electric and Vertiv. The summit will also serve as a preview for the AI Everything Global 2025 event, set to be held in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
A Focus on Startups and Investment
Expand North Star, the concurrent startup and investment show, will connect global founders with new markets and influential investors with $1.2 trillion in Assets Under Management (AUM). Venture capitalists from SOSV, Bessemer Ventures, and Sinovation Ventures will be in attendance, further expanding opportunities for emerging tech companies.
The event will also see the return of the Supernova Challenge 2.0, the largest startup pitch competition, with a prize pool of $200,000 for the winners.
Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President of DWTC, commented on the significance of these global collaborations:
“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. Through these efforts, we shall forge competitive advantages in the race towards regional and international digital supremacy.”
Record-Breaking International Involvement
This year’s edition is set to break records for international involvement, welcoming over 400 government and digital agencies from across the globe. New participants from Europe, Latin America, and Southeast Asia will debut alongside established tech leaders from China, India, and Japan.
Europe’s largest deep-tech investor, the European Innovation Council, will make its first appearance at GITEX, joining a roster of prestigious educational institutions, including MIT, Johns Hopkins University, and University College London (UCL).
The six-day event will feature highlights such as the World Future Economy Digital Leaders Summit and the highly anticipated GITEX Cyber Valley, which will bring together global experts to discuss the rising threat of cybercrime and the future of cybersecurity.
Leo Chen, Corporate Senior Vice President & President of Enterprise Sales at Huawei, emphasised the event’s impact, stating:
“GITEX GLOBAL offers a unique platform for us to engage in meaningful dialogues with industry peers about the trends and perspectives on industrial intelligence. We look forward to sharing our insights and learning from others to explore the endless possibilities of industrial digital and intelligent transformation.”
For more details and to secure your passes, visit www.gitex.com
