OMM Newsroom
GITEX Global 2026 will take place in Dubai from December 7 to 11, AnewZ reports. As growing demand for artificial intelligence puts pressure on energy supplies, computing capacity and digital infrastructure, the event will bring together global technology companies, governments and investors.
The event will open with a summit at Dubai World Trade Centre on December 7. Exhibitions and conferences will follow over four days at the Dubai Exhibition Centre in Expo City Dubai. Under a new venue and format, the annual gathering will reunite with Expand North Star, a platform for startups and investors.
Organizers expect more than 6,000 companies, startups and government entities from over 60 countries to attend, alongside more than 750 investors managing assets worth about $2 trillion. The event comes as governments and companies review their technology spending plans for 2027 and investment in AI infrastructure becomes a priority.
AI puts pressure on energy infrastructure
The rapid development of AI is driving demand for more powerful data centers, reliable electricity supplies and advanced computing equipment. This adds pressure to infrastructure that is struggling to keep pace with growing needs.
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), electricity consumption by data centers rose 17% in 2025. One factor behind the increase was rising demand for AI services. The agency forecasts that data centers’ global electricity demand could nearly double by 2030, while consumption at AI-focused centers could triple.
The IEA has identified equipment shortages and delays in connecting facilities to power grids as major obstacles to growth. Although investment continues to rise, these constraints could slow the deployment of new AI systems.
In response to these challenges, GITEX will host two new exhibitions — GITEX Super Data Centre and GITEX New Energy — examining the links between computing infrastructure, electricity generation and industrial capacity. A key question for discussion will be how the technology sector can expand AI capabilities without sharply increasing energy needs and operating costs.
Governments to discuss AI sovereignty
Alongside infrastructure, governments face difficult decisions about who controls the data, computing resources and technologies underpinning essential services.
AI sovereignty is becoming an increasingly important issue: countries are seeking to build their own technological capabilities while remaining dependent on international suppliers for advanced chips, cloud services and computing infrastructure.
Organizers say more than 400 government entities will attend. Major technology companies confirmed to participate include Microsoft, Google, Amazon Web Services, AMD, Huawei, IBM and Oracle. The gathering will bring together technology developers and government bodies that regulate, procure and secure these systems.
Cybersecurity will also be a key topic on the program. GITEX Cyber Valley will examine threats posed by increasingly autonomous AI systems, including how organizations can maintain oversight and protect sensitive data as automated tools take on more complex tasks.
The program will also address preparations for quantum computing and the risks the technology could pose to existing cybersecurity systems.
Commercial viability of robotics in focus
Although investment in AI is growing, turning technological advances into profitable businesses remains a major challenge.
GITEX World Robotix and GITEX MobX will examine the use of humanoid robots, service machines and autonomous transport systems in real-world settings. Companies confirmed to participate include Unitree, Booster Robotics and Pudu Robotics. Joby Aviation, which is developing electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, will also attend.
In addition to showcasing new technologies, discussions will address the costs of deploying and maintaining automated systems and integrating them into day-to-day business operations.
GITEX’s new LIVX program will explore AI’s growing role in healthcare, including drug discovery, genetic research, precision diagnostics and regenerative medicine. These fields offer commercial opportunities, but their long-term success will depend on AI delivering measurable results at sustainable costs.
Investors to assess the next phase of AI spending
With 2027 approaching, investment decisions will be a major focus of the event. Organizers say the participating companies have a combined market capitalization of about $20 trillion. This figure represents their combined market value; it is not the amount of funding currently available or the value of deals expected to be signed.
Expand North Star, which connects startups with investors and potential business partners, will run from December 8 to 11.
As development and deployment costs rise, securing funding is becoming more important for startups. Investors, meanwhile, are seeking to identify which emerging technologies can generate long-term returns.
The event’s theme, “The Global Reset 2027, Through a New Lens,” reflects shifting industry priorities. Discussions will cover AI infrastructure, energy, cybersecurity, robotics and international technology partnerships.
As governments and companies finalize their spending plans for 2027, GITEX Global will offer an opportunity to assess where the next phase of technology investment is headed and whether the infrastructure needed to support it can keep pace.
