The Future of Technology: Insights from GITEX Global 2024

The most awaited global tech event, GITEX Global, is happening at the Dubai World Trade Centre between 14-18 October and at the Dubai Harbour between 13-16 October. It is one of the largest tech exhibitions and has been premiering for over four decades. And this time, it is happening in two venues, with 44+ halls and hundreds of tech companies covering sustainable tech, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and more.

We are looking at 6500 exhibitors, 1200 investors, 1800 startups, and 180+ countries coming together to celebrate the power and potential of technology! The event witnessed some amazing AI-driven initiatives

Digital Dubai is a tech strategy that includes 7 pillars, some of which include Data & Statistics, Digital City, Digital Competitiveness, and Cybersecurity. The goal is to generate AED 100 million for the digital economy, increase digital safety to 90%, develop 50 high-impact digital experiences, and improve Dubai’s ranking among the top 3 cities as per the United Nations e-Government Index.

AI has been at the forefront of the exhibition this year and absolutely no surprises here. Digital Dubai has a dedicated area for AI, highlighting the achievements of Dubai in AI. The Dubai Government Pavilion will show several digital solutions powered by AI, designed for private companies, Government partners, and more.

UAE’s commitment to digital transformation and AI is witnessed during this event. Digital Dubai launched Digita, an educational program to be broadcasted on digital channels. It will cover stuff around digital transformation, services, and more. The goal is to promote a culture of innovation and digital transformation.

Another initiative is Madinati – an AI-powered solution designed to streamline the process of reporting unwanted behaviours in the city. Users can quickly report issues by snapping a photo or selecting an existing image. The AI will automatically analyse the image, identify the issue, and generate a detailed complaint description, saving users time and effort. By enabling residents to participate in identifying areas for improvement, Madinati will foster digital community engagement, empowering everyone to contribute to the city’s development and the enhancement of its facilities.

Another AI-driven project revealed is Smart Employee. It is an AI-powered application that integrates financial and HR systems, consolidating over 35 systems and 200 services. It supports 76 government entities and around 76,000 employees across various sectors. The app provides a quick, accurate, and easy way to manage numerous employee services, such as applying for leave, requesting permissions, finding and contacting colleagues, and approving processes.

Employees can handle all tasks from anywhere, at any time. Managers can track and evaluate team performance, delegate tasks, and access other key services. The app reduces task completion time by 95%.

But that’s not it. The event is an incredible one for several other reasons. A lot of tech experts have made their GITEX debut this year. Michael Spranger, President of Sony AI Inc., will be addressing delegates from 180 countries, revealing the latest projects from Sony’s research and development division. Isabell Gradert, VP of Central Research and Technology at Airbus, Germany, will be making her first regional appearance at the world’s largest tech and start-up event.

And this year marks the largest-ever European participation at GITEX, with 38 European countries exhibiting alongside over 1,000 SMEs and 450 startups. To celebrate this milestone, the European Innovation Council pavilion was officially launched.

Debuting exhibitors from Austria, Portugal, Latvia, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Switzerland were in attendance as Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President of DWTC and organiser of GITEXT inaugurated the new site. This event highlights Europe’s advancements in AI, tech, and innovation, alongside the growing efforts in cross-continental collaboration.

GITEX 2024 reflects UAE’s growing role as a global hub for innovation and AI development. By attracting tech leaders like Sony AI and Adobe, UAE is positioning itself at the forefront of the AI revolution. This event showcases not only groundbreaking AI applications across sectors but also the nation’s commitment to embracing cutting-edge technology to shape its future.

UAE’s focus on AI aligns with its broader vision of becoming a world leader in tech-driven solutions, fostering an environment where innovation thrives. As AI continues to evolve, UAE is laying the groundwork for smart cities, digital economies, and enhanced quality of life through technology.