GITEX GLOBAL 2024 kicks off in Dubai

GITEX GLOBAL, the world’s largest tech and startup event, officially starts today, marking its 44th edition with a promise to redefine the global digital economy and artificial intelligence (AI) landscape.

Under the theme “Global Collaboration to Forge a Future AI Economy,” the event gathers tech enterprises, governments, investors, experts, startups, and academic institutions from around the globe.

Running concurrently with GITEX is Expand North Star, hosted by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy at Dubai Harbour from October 13-16. This event is recognized as the world’s largest startup and investment gathering. Earlier this month, Pakistan was also recognized as 'Tech Destination of the Year' in relation to the event.

With participation from over 6,500 exhibitors, 1,800 startups, and 1,200 investors from more than 180 countries, the UAE aims to strategically enhance the next generation of AI-driven technologies.

Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President of DWTC, said in a press release, “At GITEX GLOBAL in Dubai, we shall close the year with significant manoeuvres from our tech community by doubling down on global collaborations and intensive engagements among all involved. Through these efforts, we shall forge competitive advantages in the race towards regional and international digital supremacy.”

Notably, international participation in GITEX GLOBAL 2024 has surged by nearly 40%, reflecting the ambitions of emerging digital nations looking to carve their paths in the global AI economy.

A central theme of this year’s event is the burgeoning AI economy, with Fortune Business Insights predicting the AI market to reach $621 billion in 2024 and expand to $2.7 trillion by 2032. More than 3,500 enterprises will showcase advancements in AI, Internet of Things (IoT), data, and cloud technologies.

TECOM Group PJSC is celebrating its 25th year at GITEX, with Ammar Al Malik, Executive Vice President of Commercial, emphasizing Dubai’s innovation-friendly environment as pivotal for tech advancements. “GITEX GLOBAL is a springboard to unlock this potential,” he stated, highlighting Dubai Internet City’s role in this mission.

GITEX GLOBAL will present over 120 hours of AI and deep tech content, exploring topics related to Future Health, Digital Finance, and EdTech. The event also introduces the region’s largest Data Centre Symposium, featuring industry leaders like Datalec, Khazna, and Schneider Electric.

Expand North Star aims to connect innovative founders with new markets and investors, featuring over $1.2 trillion in Assets Under Management. The event also seeks to redefine finance, blockchain, and creativity through co-located events, including GITEX Impact and Fintech Surge.

Leo Chen, Corporate Senior Vice President & President of Enterprise Sales at Huawei, noted the importance of GITEX for engaging in meaningful discussions on industrial intelligence, stating, “We look forward to sharing our insights and learning from others to explore the endless possibilities of industrial digital and intelligent transformation.”