Dubai To Host Over 2,000 AI And Tech Leaders At DATE MENA This November

Dubai is gearing up to welcome a significant tech event, the Digital Acceleration & Transformation Expo (DATE), making its inaugural appearance in the city on November 26 and 27, 2025.

This event is set to be a precursor to DATE KSA, which will unfold in Riyadh on December 8 and 9. Bringing together over 2,000 decision-makers, more than 200 investors, upwards of 60 speakers, and over 50 tech companies, DATE MENA aims to foster dialogue, facilitate deals, and spur innovation.

This edition is part of the broader DATE series orchestrated by Trescon, a catalyst for global business initiatives, and will be held alongside Trescon's Climate Action & Renewable Energy (CARE) series.

The theme for the series, "Human Potential Meets Digital Possibilities," intends to delve into how emerging technologies can catalyze significant impacts across various sectors.

The lead-up to this event featured DATE Dialogues on the September 16 at in5 Tech in Dubai, centering on digital transformation and the adoption of future-tech within the MENA region.

Insights from leading organizations including NVIDIA, Accenture, The Kanoo Group, and Magure emphasized the critical role of collaboration and local expertise in setting the groundwork for DATE MENA.

Vladimir Arshinov, the Group Chief Technology Officer at EMSTEEL, highlighted the importance of the event as a platform for exchanging insights with global leaders, aiming to shape the digital future of the region by showcasing the intersection of human potential and digital innovation.

Mohammed Saleem, the Founder and Chairman of Trescon, expressed his excitement about Dubai hosting DATE MENA, emphasizing the city's role as a leader in tech-driven transformation.

The event is expected to act as a crucial forum for discussions on leveraging technology to address real-world challenges, demonstrating Dubai's commitment to fostering an environment where policy intersects with capital to transform ideas into tangible outcomes.

Naveen Bharadwaj, Group CEO of Trescon, shared his vision for DATE, describing it as more than just an event but as a catalyst for meaningful technology use.

He stressed the significance of the platform for individuals dedicated to solving real problems through technology. This perspective aligns with Dubai's ambitious D33 economic agenda and its focus on AI-led innovation.

Significant attention during DATE will also be directed towards women in technology, showcasing their contributions and leadership in the field.

Alice Yammine Boueiz, CEO of the Arab Hospitals Federation, highlighted the transformative potential of emerging technologies, particularly in healthcare, underscoring the event's role in turning ambition into actionable transformation.

The event will feature prominent speakers such as Dr. Marwan Al Zarouni from the Department of Economy and Tourism (UAE), Dr. Ayesha Bin Lootah from VARA (UAE), H.E. Paul Dawalibi from RAK DAO, and Dr. Sid Ahmed Benraouane, Advisor to the Dubai Government, among others.

Each DATE edition will include the FutureTech World Cup, an Innovation Programme, a Launchpad, and a Jobs initiative, aiming to bridge the gap between talent and companies at the forefront of MENA's digital-first economy.

Several industry partners, including Magure, EY, Demandify, and KonfHub, have already committed to showcasing their projects and solutions at DATE MENA, highlighting the event's significance as a hub for technological innovation and collaboration.

DATE MENA represents a critical juncture for the MENA region's tech industry, bringing together leaders, innovators, and policymakers to explore the vast potential of digital transformation.

As Dubai continues to push the boundaries of AI and technology-driven economic growth, DATE offers a unique opportunity for stakeholders to engage, collaborate, and drive forward the digital future of the region.