Gitex Global to move to a new location in 2026

Dubai: Gitex Global, one of the world’s biggest technology events, is set to relocate to Expo City Dubai in December 2026, marking a major shift that blends technology, tourism, and lifestyle under one roof.

The move was directed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and under the guidance of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.

The government of Dubai Media Office confirmed that preparations have commenced to relocate Gitex Global, together with Expand North Star, to its new home at Expo City Dubai next year.

Moreover, the event will be held from December 7-11 in 2026, marking a significant shift away from the traditional October schedule.

The new venue, the Dubai Exhibition Centre, located in Expo City, is set to undergo a $2.7 billion expansion, making it the largest purpose-built indoor events venue in the region.

Sheikh Hamdan also announced the launch of the world’s first ‘TechCation’, a new initiative that merges technology and leisure, offering visitors citywide experiences that go beyond the exhibition halls.

“GITEX’s relocation to Expo City Dubai and the introduction of TechCation represent the evolution of Dubai’s innovation story — one that connects business, culture, and lifestyle,” said the Dubai Government Media Office.

TechCation - according to the Media Office statement, is a "next-generation fusion of creativity, discovery, and destination appeal, will debut at the event." Gitex Global saw an attendance of over 200,000 visitors from 180 countries last year.

The event's shift to December, the pinnacle of Dubai's tourism season, is a strategic move that offers international tech executives and investors a chance to explore the city’s social and cultural calendar.

"Beyond the show floor, Gitex TechCation unfolds across the entire city – transforming Dubai into a live, connected convergence of business, technology, and lifestyle," it explained.

The 2026 edition represents a landmark progression in the show’s journey to spawn new tech movements across the world as GITEX 5.0.

The show, which opens on December 7 next year, will see GITEX Scale Summit for global leaders - a day dedicated to high-level strategic dialogue on the decisive trends, opportunities and policy frameworks influencing global AI economies.

From December 8-11, the Expo will showcase "frontier-pushing innovations, from AI and quantum technologies to biosciences and advanced manufacturing, to spark collaborations across future critical sectors."