AI Takes Center Stage at GITEX Global 2024

The global artificial intelligence (AI) market is projected to hit US$2.7 trillion by 2032, growing from $621 billion in 2024, according to Fortune Business Insights. This growth in AI will be a key focus at GITEX GLOBAL 2024, the world’s largest technology and startup event, being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from October 14-18. 

Under the theme “Global Collaboration to Forge a Future AI Economy,” GITEX GLOBAL 2024 will feature over 3,500 enterprises, including established companies and startups, showcasing advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), data, and cloud technologies.  

Key industry players, such as Adobe, Alibaba Cloud, AWS, Dell, Google, Honeywell, Huawei, IBM, Microsoft, Nvidia, Oracle, and Salesforce, will be present at GITEX GLOBAL, participating in discussions about AI’s role across various sectors. Abu Dhabi-based companies, including the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) and G42 Group’s Presight and Khazna, will represent the Emirate’s growing position in the AI market.

“With international participation in GITEX GLOBAL 2024 rocketing by almost 40 percent, it’s a barometer of the unstoppable ambitions of many young rising digital nations who are now confidently forging their ways into the future global AI economy through GITEX. As the world's most global tech event brand with events in Germany, Singapore, Morocco, and Nigeria alongside Expand North Star, we are committed to strategically propelling the next generation of AI-driven technologies via startups, scale-ups, and unicorns,” Trixie LohMirmand, executive vice president of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the organizer of GITEX GLOBAL and Expand North Star, stated. 

The event will offer over 120 hours of AI-focused sessions covering sectors such as healthcare, finance, and education.  

One feature that will be launched at GITEX GLOBAL 2024 is the Data Centre Symposium, which addresses the increasing demand for data storage solutions due to AI advancements. Leading companies like Datalec, Kerno, Khazna, Legrand, NTT Data, and Schneider Electric will participate in these discussions. 

Running alongside GITEX GLOBAL, the major startup and investment show Expand North Star will take place at Dubai Harbour from October 13-16. This event, hosted by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy and organized by DWTC, will bring together over 1,800 startups and 1,200 investors from 180 countries. Expand North Star aims to connect emerging startups with investors and new markets, supporting growth within the AI sector.  

Expand North Star will focus on investment and innovation in the startup ecosystem, providing opportunities for founders to connect with venture capitalists managing over $1.2 trillion in assets. Notable investors, including SOSV, Bessemer Ventures, Lightrock, Sinovation Ventures, and the European Innovation Fund, will attend. The event will also cover the future of finance, blockchain, and digital marketing through co-located events like Fintech Surge, Future Blockchain Summit, and Marketing Mania. 

Additionally, the Supernova Challenge 2.0 will feature a startup pitch competition with a $200,000 prize pool. 

AI enthusiasts will converge at the World Future Economy Digital Leaders Summit – an event featuring global innovators and influential leaders who will discuss key priorities shaping the future of technology. Additionally, GITEX Cyber Valley, hosted by the UAE Cyber Security Council, will feature experts discussing the latest trends in cybersecurity. With cybercrime damage costs estimated to reach a potential $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, the summit will feature a comprehensive conference agenda where some of the world’s leading chief information security officers (CISOs), chief information officers (CIOs), and governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) leaders will address the risks associated with global cybercrime. 

AI Everything Global 

In addition to showcasing AI innovations, GITEX GLOBAL will also pave the way for its forthcoming event, AI Everything Global, which is scheduled to take place from February 4-6, 2025 in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

AI Everything Global is set to bring together the AI community, creating a gathering for innovators and thought leaders. The event will begin with the AI Everything Summit on February 4 at the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort in Abu Dhabi. This invitation-only summit will feature world leaders discussing pressing challenges and opportunities in AI development. Attendees can expect a full agenda, including the Summit Stage, AI Awards & Recognition, and a networking dinner reception. 

The Exhibition Showcase and Conference will take place from February 5-6 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre. This exhibition will include over 500 exhibitors from major tech companies and startups, providing a platform for networking and learning. Participants will have access to more than 100 talks across four curated stages, an investor program, and live coding workshops. 

With the UAE emerging as a central hub for AI, AI Everything Global is poised to be a significant event for those engaged in the AI sector.