Dubai AI Festival 2026

Dubai AI Festival 2026 takes over Dubai World Trade Centre on 26 and 27 October 2026, and it is one of the biggest dates in the city’s tech calendar this autumn. Now in its third edition, the festival is organised by Dubai AI Campus in partnership with DIFC as part of Dubai AI Week, with Terrapinn managing the event. If you work anywhere near artificial intelligence, or simply want to understand where it is heading, this is a good two days to clear in your diary.

About Dubai AI Festival 2026

The festival brings together government leaders, investors, start-ups and global technology companies under one roof. The aim is simple: show how AI is changing business, public services and everyday life, and give people the chance to meet the teams building it.

Earlier announcements projected more than 20,000 attendees and around 150 sessions, so expect a busy, energetic show floor. The event was first planned for April 2026 and moved to October. If you bought a pass for the original dates, the organisers say it remains valid.

There is a full Conference Agenda alongside a separate Start-up Agenda, which makes it easy to follow the track that suits you. The official speakers page is updated by the organisers, so check it before you go if you have a particular name in mind.

What to Expect

Keynotes and Panels

The conference programme runs keynotes, panels and talks on how AI is being used across industries. Sessions tend to mix big-picture thinking with practical case studies, so you leave with ideas you can actually use.

The Exhibition Floor

The exhibition gives you the chance to see AI products and services up close and talk to the people behind them. It is a relaxed way to compare solutions without a sales meeting in the calendar.

Start-up Stage

A dedicated Start-up Agenda puts younger companies in the spotlight. If you are an investor or a founder looking for partners, this is often where the most interesting conversations happen.

Networking

Several pass types are available, including an Event Pass, a Premium Networking Pass, and application-only Guest and Investor passes for senior executives and investors. Guest and Investor passes are subject to approval by the organisers.

Key Highlights

• Third edition of Dubai’s flagship artificial intelligence festival.
• Organised by Dubai AI Campus with DIFC as part of Dubai AI Week.
• Conference sessions plus a separate Start-up Agenda.
• An exhibition floor with AI companies from the region and beyond.
• Application-only passes for C-level executives and investors.

The Venue: Dubai World Trade Centre

Dubai World Trade Centre sits on Sheikh Zayed Road and is one of the most familiar event venues in the city, hosting many of Dubai’s biggest conferences and trade shows each year.

The venue is next to World Trade Centre Metro Station on the Red Line, which is usually the easiest way to arrive during a busy event week.

Visitor Tips

Getting There

Take the Metro to World Trade Centre station if you can. If you drive or take a taxi, allow extra time on a big show day.

Plan Your Sessions

With so many sessions, it pays to look at the Conference Agenda and Start-up Agenda the night before. Pick a few must-see talks and leave gaps for the exhibition.

What to Bring

Bring your registration confirmation on your phone, a charged phone and business cards if you still use them. Comfortable shoes help too, as you will cover a lot of ground.

Arrive Early

Badge collection can get busy in the morning. Arriving early gives you time to collect your badge, grab a coffee and find your first session without rushing.

Dubai AI Festival 2026 is a strong pick for anyone curious about where artificial intelligence is going next, whether you are building it, investing in it or just trying to keep up. Check the agenda, choose your pass and register before the festival opens on 26 October.