UAE gears up for Ai Everything Global 2026

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is strengthening its position as a global hub for artificial intelligence (AI) with the announcement that Ai Everything Global Summit & Expo 2026 will be held in Abu Dhabi.

The event, a premier gathering of AI and technology leaders, highlights the UAE’s commitment to becoming an AI-powered government within the next two years.

The announcement was made early February during the inaugural Ai Everything Global Summit at the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, which hosted delegates from over 149 countries.

This move comes at a time of unprecedented global investment in AI, further reinforcing the UAE’s role in shaping the future of AI-driven economies.

Faisal Al Bannai, Adviser to the UAE President & Secretary General of the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), emphasized the summit’s importance saying: “In Abu Dhabi and the UAE, our commitment to AI innovation, advanced technologies, and R&D underpins a dynamic ecosystem that empowers talent and drives strategic progress. Today, we are proud to support Ai Everything Global in Abu Dhabi – an annual gathering that brings influential AI shapers and innovators to our capital.”

The event will be organized by KAOUN International, the international events division of Dubai World Trade Centre, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism. It will be hosted at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, a leading venue for global exhibitions and conferences.

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group, described the event as a significant milestone for Abu Dhabi:

“Bringing Ai Everything Global to Abu Dhabi is a testament to ADNEC Group’s commitment to positioning the capital as a global hub for technological innovation and artificial intelligence.”

Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International, stressed the event’s role in shaping the future of AI.

“The annual event compels stakeholders to reflect, recalibrate, and reset to respond to new challenges and paradigms, competitively yet collaboratively.”

AI as an economic growth engine
With AI expected to contribute $100 billion to the UAE’s GDP by 2030, the country continues to lead in cutting-edge AI investments. Recent initiatives include:

• MGX’s participation in the $500 billion Stargate AI Consortium
• ADQ Growth Lab’s $27 million R&D investment
• Dubai’s appointment of Chief AI Officers across government entities to integrate AI into public services

The UAE’s AI strategy aligns with global technological advancements, ensuring the nation remains a leader in AI research, investment, and policy development.

A Global Stage for AI Innovation
Scheduled for February 2026, Ai Everything Global will serve as a platform for policymakers, businesses, and innovators to explore AI’s transformative impact.

The summit will drive discussions on AI ethics, governance, and economic integration, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s role in shaping AI-driven economies on the global stage.