Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has announced plans to transform GITEX TechCation 2026 into the world's largest event dedicated to technology and artificial intelligence. The event, set to be held under the guidance of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aims to position Dubai as a global hub for innovation, investment, and lifestyle.
According to Emirates News Agency, the event will take place from December 7 to December 11, 2026, at Expo City Dubai. GITEX TechCation will serve as a focal point of the world's largest tech and startup event network, aligning with Dubai's cultural and tourism season. In preparation for this groundbreaking event, a Strategic Partnership was signed between the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). The agreement was formalised by Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, and Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President of DWTC.
Through this collaboration, GITEX TechCation will leverage DET's extensive networks in hospitality, tourism, and culture to create unique programs and immersive experiences. This initiative aims to transform Dubai into a connected hub of technology, culture, and tourism, enhancing the city's appeal as a destination for extended business and leisure stays.
Issam Kazim highlighted the dual nature of GITEX as both a tech show and a lifestyle event, emphasizing its potential to elevate Dubai's global significance. The event aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, and aims to enhance the visitor experience by promoting new opportunities within the tech community. He expressed eagerness to work with DWTC and various stakeholders to ensure that GITEX TechCation becomes a showcase of Dubai's potential as a place to connect and innovate.
Trixie LohMirmand described GITEX TechCation as a groundbreaking reconfiguration of global tech events, promising a unique fusion of innovation and lifestyle. She emphasized the event's ethos of 'Tech Hard, Live Hard,' as it moves beyond conventional venues to fully engage with Dubai's vibrant culture and spirit.
Dubai's international appeal is a key factor in the planning of GITEX TechCation. The city was ranked No.1 globally in TripAdvisor's Travellers' Choice Best of the Best Awards from 2022 to 2024, highlighting its strong pull for international visitors. Additionally, Dubai's culinary scene has gained worldwide recognition, with the 2025 MICHELIN Guide featuring 119 restaurants and two establishments making it to The World's 50 Best Restaurants list.
GITEX TechCation aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position Dubai among the top three global cities by 2033. The event will embed a vast tech and investor network within Dubai's tourism and cultural framework, further cementing the city's status as a global hub for talent, investment, and commerce. Dubai's attractiveness for entrepreneurs and investors is further evidenced by its top global ranking in Greenfield FDI projects and its leading position in Savills' Executive Nomad Index.