Abu Dhabi has been selected to host the prestigious Ai Everything Global Summit & Expo in 2026, solidifying the UAE’s position as a global leader in artificial intelligence. The announcement was made during the inaugural summit, which drew a diverse audience of over 149 countries to the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort.
Organized by KAOUN International, the events arm of Dubai World Trade Centre, the 2026 edition will be held at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, further cementing the city’s status as a hub for technological innovation. This strategic partnership with the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) underscores the emirate’s commitment to fostering a dynamic ecosystem for AI research, development, and deployment.
“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,” said His Excellency Faisal Al Bannai, Adviser to the UAE President & Secretary General of the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC).
“This event will further strengthen the UAE’s role as an architect of future intelligence-driven economies.”
Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of ADNEC Group, emphasized the significance of this decision, stating, “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.” He further highlighted the event’s role in empowering industries, governments, and innovators to harness the transformative potential of AI.
Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International and EVP of Dubai World Trade Centre, underscored the pivotal role of Ai Everything Global 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,” she said. “Ai Everything Global will emerge as an international force in the global AI economy, influencing policies, advanced tech developments, and investments.”
The UAE has made significant strides in AI development, with initiatives such as the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 aiming to position the country at the forefront of AI innovation. The upcoming summit in Abu Dhabi will further solidify the UAE’s position as a global leader in AI, attracting top industry leaders, researchers, and investors to explore the latest advancements and shape the future of this transformative technology.
