Gitex Global 2025 redefines innovation with AI, 6G, and smart cities

Wednesday 15 October 2025 - 07:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Gitex Global 2025 redefines innovation with AI, 6G, and smart cities

Dubai’s World Trade Centre became a hub of innovation yesterday as it hosted the 45th edition of GITEX Global 2025, the world’s largest technology and startup exhibition. Officially inaugurated by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the event underscored Dubai’s commitment to fostering global collaboration and driving technological progress.

A platform for partnerships and vision

On the opening day, the GITEX Power Summit set the stage for an ambitious week. UAE Minister of Economy H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri described the UAE as a “test lab for future technologies,” emphasizing the nation's role in global innovation.

A major announcement followed as GITEX and e& signed a strategic agreement aimed at boosting AI innovation and attracting global investments ahead of GITEX 2026, which will be held at Expo City Dubai. The event’s organizers also revealed plans to merge GITEX Global and Gulfood at Expo City Dubai in 2026, creating a multi-disciplinary platform blending technology, sustainability, and culinary innovation.

AI remains at the forefront

Artificial intelligence dominated discussions, with experts exploring its transformative impact on global economies. Andrew Feldman, CEO of Cerebras Systems, highlighted AI’s critical role in driving worldwide earnings growth. Greg Jackson, CEO of Octopus Energy, explained how AI optimizes energy consumption, particularly for renewable energy transitions.

Evan Solomon, Canada’s Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, called this era “a hinge moment in history,” noting the convergence of geopolitical shifts and technological revolutions.

Day two: unveiling the future of connectivity

Momentum continued on the second day with groundbreaking advancements. e& UAE unveiled the world’s first 200G Passive Optical Network (PON) prototype for ultra-fast internet access, while its collaboration with Space42 aimed to enhance global 5G networks through hybrid satellite-terrestrial connectivity.

The academic sector also made strides, with Khalifa University and Zayed University announcing the UAE 6G Innovation Hub, a research center dedicated to advancing next-generation telecommunications.

Abu Dhabi took a bold step into AI governance, launching the world’s first AI public servant via the TAMM AutoGov platform, automating over 1,100 government tasks. Meanwhile, Dubai introduced smart city innovations, including the Dubai Now App’s digital property sales feature and the Dubai Live platform, which uses AI and predictive analytics for real-time city management.

Bridging global AI access

A standout moment came when Sam Altman, OpenAI’s CEO, and Peng Xiao, Group CEO of G42, emphasized the importance of equitable AI accessibility. They argued that the future of AI hinges not just on technology but on ensuring its benefits reach all corners of the globe.

GITEX Global 2025 continues to set the benchmark for innovation, positioning Dubai as a global epicenter for technological transformation and collaboration.