In anticipation for Dubai AI Week 2026, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Dubai Future Foundation, has once again reinforced Dubai’s bold commitment to accelerating AI adoption and building a global hub for artificial intelligence enterprises, talent, and innovation.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of Dubai AI Week 2025, Sheikh Hamdan said the city is “moving forward with determination” to unlock the transformative potential of AI and design a better future for society.
Dubai AI Week 2025 was a major success, attracting over 30,000 experts and participants from more than 100 countries.
Organised by the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence under the Dubai Future Foundation, the week featured 10 major events, over 250 sessions, panel discussions, and workshops, and the launch of more than 30 new initiatives and partnerships between government entities, private sector leaders, investors, and startups.
Global tech giants like Meta, Microsoft, OpenAI, Google, IBM, Amazon, NVIDIA, and Cohere actively participated alongside students from Dubai’s schools and universities, highlighting the city’s efforts to cultivate a grassroots AI talent pool.
“Following the success of this year’s edition, we have directed that the Dubai AI Week 2026 be held in April next year, with the goal of doubling all targets expanding to 20 events across the city and welcoming participation from the world’s leading technology experts,” said Sheikh Hamdan.
“Dubai AI Week will become a key annual event, bringing together the future shapers of technology from around the world,” he added.
Dubai AI Week 2026: Expanding AI Ecosystems and Billion-Dollar Ventures
Sheikh Hamdan emphasized that AI is “driving an unprecedented transformation in human history, reshaping how individuals, institutions, and governments think and operate.”
He stressed that “those who are best prepared for the future are the ones building the foundations today, by enabling ecosystems, empowering talent, and ensuring responsible AI governance.”
Looking ahead, Dubai AI Week 2026 involves:
- Establishing more AI companies across the emirate.
- Boosting engagement with global AI experts.
- Issuing new directives for government leaders to develop comprehensive AI adoption strategies.
- Embedding AI skills into schools, universities, research centres, and innovation hubs.
- Fostering billion-dollar AI startups and ventures within Dubai’s robust tech ecosystem.
Sheikh Hamdan pointed out that Dubai’s readiness to become a global AI powerhouse is built on its advanced digital infrastructure, agile regulations, and strong commitment to developing AI talent.
“We are seizing the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence to enhance quality of life and deliver positive impact across society,” he concluded.
With Dubai AI Week now firmly positioned as a flagship global event, the city is doubling down on its ambition to lead the AI-driven future, not just for the MENA region, but for the world.
