Dubai is set to host the world’s largest technology and artificial intelligence event following directives from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Gitex TechCation 2026 will take place at Expo City Dubai from December 7-11, utilizing the emirate’s tourism networks to create immersive, citywide experiences that extend beyond traditional convention halls.
Dubai is preparing to launch the world’s most ambitious technology event following a directive from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to develop Gitex TechCation into the largest event of its kind globally.
The inaugural Gitex TechCation 2026 will be held at Expo City Dubai from December 7-11, bringing together the world’s leading technology companies, startups, investors, and innovators in an immersive celebration of technology and creativity.
The event was initially announced by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, marking a significant expansion of Dubai’s position in the global tech landscape.
TechCation will bring together the world’s leading technology companies, startups, investors, and innovators in an immersive, citywide celebration of technology and creativity.
In a groundbreaking approach to tech events, Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) have signed a Strategic Partnership to leverage the emirate’s tourism and cultural networks. This collaboration will curate TechCation programmes, campaigns, and immersive experiences, allowing the event to move beyond convention halls and spread across the entire city.
The programme aligns with DET’s goal to make Dubai the best city to visit, live, work, and invest, while encouraging longer stays for international visitors and participants.
Dubai’s credentials as a premier global destination support this ambitious vision. The city was ranked No.1 worldwide in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards for three consecutive years (2022-2024), making it the first city globally to achieve this distinction.
The emirate’s culinary scene has also gained international recognition, with the 2025 Michelin Guide featuring 119 restaurants from Dubai, including 19 with Michelin Stars, and two restaurants making it to The World’s 50 Best Restaurants for 2025.
Gitex TechCation supports the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position Dubai among the world’s top three global cities by 2033. By embedding the world’s largest tech and investor network within Dubai’s tourism and cultural landscape, the event strengthens the city’s stature as a global destination for talent, foreign direct investment, and commerce.
Dubai’s investment appeal continues to grow, ranking first globally in terms of the number of Greenfield FDI projects it attracted for the eighth consecutive half-year period in H1 2025. The city also secured the No.1 position in Savills’ Executive Nomad Index, making it a magnet for entrepreneurs, tech talent, and investors.
This development complements Dubai’s ongoing technology initiatives, including the AI-powered automation systems launched by government entities and the emirate’s growing position as a hub for AI innovation across the region.
