Abu Dhabi To Host Ai Everything Global Summit & Expo In 2026, Strengthening UAE's AI Leadership

The UAE is making significant strides in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), with Abu Dhabi set to host the Ai Everything Global Summit & Expo in 2026. This event underscores the UAE's ambition to be a leading global centre for AI innovation. The announcement was made during the inaugural Ai Everything Global Summit, which is the largest gathering of AI and tech leaders.

Abu Dhabi has set its sights on becoming the first fully AI-powered government within two years, guided by the newly unveiled Abu Dhabi Government Digital Strategy 2025-2027. Currently, the UAE ranks as a top global hub for AI talent, second only to the United States. The summit's announcement comes amid significant global investments in AI and evolving dynamics in the international AI landscape.

Ai Everything Global is an integral part of GITEX GLOBAL, known as the world's largest tech and startup show. The event opened to a full house with delegates from over 149 countries. Organised by KAOUN International, part of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), it will be held at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, in partnership with Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT).

The summit aims to bring together influential figures from both private and public sectors annually. This convergence seeks to drive forward a future economy powered by AI under the visionary leadership of the UAE. Faisal Abdulaziz Al Bannai, Adviser to the UAE President for Strategic Research and Advanced Technology Affairs, emphasised their commitment to fostering an ecosystem that supports talent and strategic progress.

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group, highlighted that hosting Ai Everything Global in Abu Dhabi aligns with their vision to position the capital as a hub for technological innovation. He stated that this event provides a platform for industries and governments to harness AI’s potential, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s leadership in shaping future digital economies.

Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International and EVP of Dubai World Trade Centre, noted that Ai Everything serves as a pivotal convergence point for innovative advances in AI solutions globally. She mentioned that this annual event encourages stakeholders to adapt to new challenges collaboratively while influencing policies and tech developments worldwide.

Global Gathering of Tech Leaders

Ai Everything Global 2025 will take place on 4 February in Abu Dhabi and from 5 to 6 February in Dubai. The summit will open with the theme ‘Big Winds of Change: It’s AI in Everything’. As one of the largest public-private global AI gatherings this year, it will feature over 200 speakers alongside showcases from more than 500 global tech enterprises.

The event will see participation from over 500 Chief AI Officers (CAIOs) and tech executives along with 150 active global investors managing $70 billion in assets. These industry leaders will present how they are leading interconnected AI advancements across various sectors.

This initiative builds on the UAE's strong digital infrastructure as Ai Everything Global transitions towards a human-centred AI knowledge economy. By hosting such events, Abu Dhabi aims to catalyse meaningful dialogue on future technological advancements while attracting world-class expertise.

With inputs from WAM