GITEX Global 2025

Between October 13–17 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the annual GITEX conference and exhibition was one of the busiest editions in recent years. With over 6,800 exhibitors and 2,000 startups from 180 countries, the event showcased the UAE’s rising influence in global tech innovation. It was truly a sight to behold! 

A standout trend was the surge of local companies taking centre stage. Regional startups and enterprises demonstrated bold ambition, unveiling cutting-edge solutions and attracting serious investor interest. This shift reflects the UAE’s broader strategy to cultivate homegrown innovation while meeting Emiratisation quotas, which are driving demand for skilled national talent across tech sectors. This is a big focus area for us at First Point Group. 

Key Topics 

Artificial Intelligence and Robotics dominated the conversation. Global giants like Siemens, IBM, Nokia, and Huawei unveiled new AI-powered platforms and autonomous systems, signaling deeper investment in automation. The UAE’s robotics sector is expanding rapidly, supported by national AI strategies aimed at global leadership by 2031.

Meanwhile, Smart Cities emerged as a high-growth segment. The UAE’s Smart City market is projected to grow from $17.9 million in 2024 to $78.1 million by 2030, with a staggering 29.8% CAGR. Initiatives like Smart Dubai and AI-integrated infrastructure are transforming urban life and sustainability.

Cloud and data center capabilities were another major focus. Over 40% of exhibitors showcased solutions tied to cloud infrastructure, reflecting the region’s pivot toward scalable, secure digital ecosystems. This aligns with the UAE’s broader tech market, which is expected to surpass $3.8 billion in revenue by the end of 2025, driven by AI, IoT, and blockchain adoption.

Talent Acquisition

Beyond technology, talent acquisition was a recurring theme. In conversations with exhibitors, a common point emerged: the demand for local expertise with international exposure. Companies are actively seeking professionals with global more global   experience across:

• Sales
• Presales 
• Engineering
• Managed Services
• Niche Technologies
• Recruitment

This reflects a maturing market that values both technical depth and cultural fluency.

GITEX 2025 wasn’t just a showcase - it was a statement. As Dubai cements its position as a global innovation hub, the convergence of AI, smart cities, cloud infrastructure, and talent will define the next chapter of digital transformation. This marks the final GITEX at the World Trade Centre, as from next year the event moves to a venue ten times larger - Expo City Dubai - setting the stage for even more advanced technologies to drive the world forward.

GITEX 2025 wasn’t just a showcase - it was a statement. As Dubai continues to position itself as a global innovation hub, the convergence of AI, Smart Cities, cloud infrastructure, and talent will define the next chapter of digital transformation.