Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Opens 45th GITEX Global
Dubai, The Gulf Observer: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, on Monday inaugurated the 45th edition of GITEX Global, the world’s largest showcase of technology and artificial intelligence, being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre until 17th October 2025.
Accompanying His Highness were H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai; H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance of the UAE; and H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai.
In his remarks, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid affirmed that the UAE is advancing its development journey through the adoption of modern technologies—particularly artificial intelligence (AI)—to build a sustainable digital economy supported by strategic investments in infrastructure and future industries.
“We want the UAE to be a global model in building an integrated digital economy driven by innovation, knowledge and artificial intelligence, and to serve as an international platform accelerating technological and economic transformation,” he said.
“In Dubai, we have an ambitious vision to raise the annual contribution of digital transformation to the emirate’s economy to AED 100 billion by 2033, and we are moving confidently towards achieving this goal.”
Highlighting the global significance of the event, Sheikh Mohammed stated:
“We welcome more than 6,800 tech companies and 2,000 startups from 180 countries to an event that has become the world’s leading meeting point for technology pioneers and a hub for building new bridges of communication that open unprecedented horizons for growth and progress.”
He added that GITEX Global has evolved from being a regional gathering of technology leaders to a global movement, reflecting the UAE’s determination to lead innovation, turn challenges into opportunities, and foster strategic partnerships that strengthen its position as a central hub in the global digital economy.
During his tour, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, accompanied by H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee, and H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, visited several pavilions featuring the latest global innovations in AI, cloud computing, quantum computing, and emerging technologies.
Leading international companies—including Amazon Web Services (AWS), e&, G42, Huawei, IBM, Microsoft, and Oracle—presented their latest solutions contributing to digital transformation across key sectors.
His Highness also toured the European Innovation Council pavilion, which featured 15 innovation-driven companies exploring new global partnerships. Additionally, he visited the Cisco Systems, Huawei, and Siemens pavilions to review advancements in AI, sustainability, and digital infrastructure.
At the e& pavilion, Sheikh Mohammed explored future-focused innovations including flying cars, electric air taxis (eVTOLs), AI-powered autonomous vehicles, and advanced robotics. He also reviewed AI-driven smart services developed by the General Directorate for Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai and the Community Development Authority, aimed at enhancing service delivery and reinforcing Dubai’s position as one of the world’s smartest and most inclusive cities.
Now in its 45th edition, GITEX Global 2025 focuses on AI infrastructure development, accelerating global innovation, and advancing international dialogue on policies that support responsible growth in the expanding AI economy. The event features a comprehensive program of conferences, expert discussions, and interactive showcases, offering a collaborative platform that empowers decision-makers, drives innovation, and fosters sustainable digital growth.
Bringing together government entities, industry leaders, startups, SMEs, investors, and global technology firms, GITEX Global continues to serve as a powerful catalyst for innovation and investment, aligning with the UAE’s national strategies—including the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), the Dubai Blockchain Strategy, and UAE Vision 2031—as it leads the region and the world into the next decade of digital transformation.
