GITEX GLOBAL is an exhibition for anyone interested in how technology is changing and how businesses are putting it to use. Artificial intelligence is a central theme, alongside robotics, quantum computing, data centres and new transport solutions highlighted by the organiser. It is worth arriving with a clear purpose: finding technology for your company, discussing a partnership or comparing different approaches to a problem.
GITEX has two distinct formats in December 2026. On 7 December, the Summit at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) focuses on the development and scaling of AI. From 8 to 11 December, the Expo takes place at Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), Expo City Dubai. If you mainly want to explore products and meet companies, start with the Expo programme. If strategic discussions interest you, look at the Summit programme and participation requirements.
What makes GITEX interesting
A technology exhibition lets you look at a problem from several angles. Artificial intelligence needs computing infrastructure, automation connects with robotics, and digital products depend on how businesses and people will use them. The themes at GITEX offer a reason to explore related fields as well as your own specialism.
The organiser's description of the 2026 format includes conferences, practical workshops and business networking. For a specialist, the value may lie in discussing applications of technology; for an executive, in comparing approaches to business development; for an entrepreneur, in finding partners and gathering feedback.
Start with two or three questions you want to answer. Which task in your business could be automated? What data would that require? Which companies would be useful to speak to? Questions like these can help you choose meetings with a purpose, rather than trying to see everything in one day.
Summit or Expo: which should you choose?
Scroll the table horizontally
| Format | When | Where | Main focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| The GITEX Summit | 7 December 2026 | DWTC | Discussions on developing and scaling AI |
| GITEX GLOBAL Expo | 8–11 December 2026 | DEC, Expo City Dubai | Exhibition programme and meeting companies |
The five days from 7 to 11 December cover GITEX as a whole, rather than five days of Expo. If you want to attend both parts, account for the different venues when choosing accommodation and arranging meetings. Check the organiser's website for the detailed programme and the participation option you need.
Combine the exhibition with time to explore Dubai
After several working days, consider leaving an evening or an extra day free for the city. You could visit Burj Khalifa, walk by the water or explore historic neighbourhoods. Our Dubai travel guide has ideas. Choose one place that appeals to you rather than adding another long list of obligations to a busy day.
Transfers during GITEX
Whether there are two or three of you, or you are travelling as a larger work group, you can discuss hotel-to-GITEX trips and return journeys with Hola Taxi in advance. Include your attendance dates, the venue, the number of passengers and your hotel. You can discuss an airport pickup and travel on exhibition days in the same enquiry.
For arrivals at Dubai International Airport, see the DXB transfers section. If you prefer the Metro, the organiser identifies World Trade Centre station for the Summit and Expo 2020 station for the Expo. Check the latest transport instructions before travelling.
Sources
Facts checked on 15 October 2026.
