Mohammed Bin Rashid Directs GITEX TechCation 2026 To Become World’s Largest Technology Event
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has instructed that GITEX TechCation 2026 be developed into the world's largest technology and AI event. This initiative will be overseen by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. The event aims to position Dubai as a global hub for innovation, investment, and lifestyle.
Scheduled from 7-11 December 2026 at Expo City Dubai, GITEX TechCation will serve as a central point for the world's largest tech and startup network. It will coincide with Dubai's lifestyle, cultural, and tourism season. The event will bring together leading technology companies, startups, investors, and innovators in a citywide celebration of technology and creativity.
To prepare for this unique global event, the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) have signed a Strategic Partnership. This collaboration was formalised between Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing under DET, and Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President of DWTC. The partnership aims to support and promote GITEX TechCation.
Through this alliance, GITEX will utilise DET's extensive hospitality, tourism, and cultural networks to create TechCation programmes. These initiatives are designed to transform Dubai into a vibrant nexus of tech, culture, and tourism. The programme encourages extended networking itineraries and longer stays for international executives and investors.
The concept of GITEX TechCation is supported by Dubai's global allure. The city ranked No.1 worldwide in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards for three consecutive years (2022-2024). This recognition highlights its appeal to international tourists. Additionally, the city's culinary scene has gained prominence with the 2025 MICHELIN Guide featuring 119 restaurants from Dubai.
Dubai's ambition is further reflected in its economic agenda D33 which aims to position it among the world’s top three global cities by 2033. By integrating the world's largest tech network within its tourism landscape, GITEX TechCation strengthens Dubai’s status as a destination for talent and commerce.
Enhancing Visitor Experience
Issam Kazim stated that "GITEX has long been more than just a tech show." He emphasised that this new era will elevate its global importance by blending innovation with Dubai's lifestyle. This aligns with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to enhance visitor experiences while fostering new opportunities within the tech community.
Trixie LohMirmand described GITEX TechCation as "a fundamental reconfiguration of global tech events." She highlighted how it moves beyond conventional halls to embrace Dubai’s culture and spirit through immersive citywide activation under the ethos 'Tech Hard, Live Hard'.
Dubai: A Magnet for Investment
Dubai continues to attract significant foreign direct investment (FDI). It ranked first globally in Greenfield FDI projects for eight consecutive half-year periods up until H1 2025. Additionally, it topped Savills’ Executive Nomad Index making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs seeking opportunities in technology sectors.
The city’s culinary achievements include two restaurants making it onto The World's 50 Best Restaurants list in 2025 alongside numerous MICHELIN-starred establishments further enhancing its reputation as a sought-after travel destination worldwide.
This strategic approach ensures that GITEX TechCation not only showcases technological advancements but also highlights what makes Dubai an inspiring place where people can connect creatively while experiencing future possibilities firsthand.
With inputs from WAM
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