Dubai: Under the theme ‘Reimagining Realities’, Gitex Technology Week 2016 will highlight how businesses can be transformed through cutting-edge technology and global dignitaries.

Robotics and drones will demonstrate how the supply chain is evolving at the October 16-20 event, the largest technology exchange and marketplace for Middle East & Africa, in Dubai, Trixie LohMirmand, senior vice-president, Exhibitions and Events Management, Dubai World Trade Centre, said.

The Middle East IT spend is set to reach $212.9 billion (Dh781 billion) in 2016, a 37 per cent increase from the previous year, she said, adding that nearly 22,000 CEOs from top corporations are expected to attend the event.

The Virtual Reality gaming industry alone is expected to rise to $4.4 billion by 2022. This technology is set to be the GCC’s next billion dollar industry. From VR headsets to AR tools used in live surgery, Gitex is set to demonstrate how a new view of reality can change lives and businesses.

The new Gitex Startup Movement is set to be the most global event of its kind, connecting more 400 start-ups from 35 countries, and 1,000 entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, angel investors, government buyers and mentors.