Planning to attend GITEX Dubai 2026?
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WhatsApp Our Travel TeamGITEX Dubai 2026 — Quick Facts
Event dates and details based on official GITEX GLOBAL 2026 announcements. Check the official website for the latest updates.
What Is GITEX Dubai 2026?
GITEX GLOBAL 2026 is the world's largest technology and AI event, taking place from 7–11 December 2026 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai. The event brings together global technology leaders, startups, investors, government officials and innovators across AI, cybersecurity, cloud, fintech, robotics, digital transformation and more.
GITEX is a five-day programme beginning with the GITEX Scale Summit on 7 December, followed by four days of Expo and dealmaking from 8–11 December. The event is a key date in the global technology calendar, attracting tens of thousands of attendees from over 170 countries.
For 2026, GITEX has moved to a new venue — the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai — as part of a major expansion that positions the venue as the region's largest purpose-built indoor events space.
Key sectors covered:
- Artificial Intelligence — generative AI, agentic AI, AI infrastructure
- Cybersecurity — enterprise security, threat intelligence
- Cloud Computing — cloud platforms, hybrid cloud, edge computing
- Fintech — digital banking, blockchain, payments
- Robotics — automation, industrial robotics
- Startups — pitching, investment, scaling
- Digital Transformation — government, enterprise, industry 4.0
- Government Technology — smart cities, citizen services
Official organiser: GITEX GLOBAL.
GITEX Dubai 2026 Dates — When Is It?
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 7 December 2026 | GITEX Scale Summit |
| 8–11 December 2026 | Main GITEX GLOBAL programme (Expo + dealmaking) |
| 8–10 December 2026 | Expand North Star (startup & investor event) |
Why this matters: The official programme starts on 7 December with the Scale Summit, so don't plan your travel to arrive only for the 8th if you want to attend the full event. The main exhibition opens on 8 December and runs through 11 December.
GITEX 2026 Venue & Location
Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), Expo City Dubai
This is a major change for 2026 — GITEX has moved from the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) to the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai. The new venue is undergoing a US$2.7 billion expansion and will become the region's largest purpose-built indoor events venue.
The new venue offers:
- State-of-the-art exhibition halls
- Conference and meeting facilities
- Connectivity to Dubai Metro (near UAE Exchange station)
- Proximity to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)
- Easy access from Dubai International (DXB) via taxi or private transfer
Address: Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai, UAE
GITEX Dubai 2026 Tickets & Registration
Important: Sky Voyage does not sell official GITEX admission tickets. Event registration is handled through the official GITEX website.
Pass types typically include:
- Visitor pass — exhibition access
- Conference pass — full conference + exhibition
- Delegate pass — premium access
- Startup pass — for startup attendees
- Investor pass — for investment professionals
- Media pass — press and media
- Scale Summit pass — leadership event on 7 December
- Expand North Star pass — startup event access
Register here: Official GITEX website
Sky Voyage can help you arrange the travel side of your GITEX trip — flights, hotels, transfers and more.
Flights to GITEX Dubai 2026 from the UK
Flying to Dubai for GITEX GLOBAL 2026? Sky Voyage can help you compare flight options from London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow and other UK airports.
London to Dubai for GITEX
Direct flights from Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted to Dubai International (DXB) with Emirates, British Airways and more. Typical flight time: ~7 hours.
Compare London to Dubai flights →
Manchester to Dubai
Direct Emirates flights from Manchester to Dubai. A convenient option for northern England travellers. Flight time: ~7–8 hours.
Compare Manchester to Dubai flights →
Birmingham to Dubai
Direct Emirates flights plus one-stop options via Qatar Airways, Etihad and Turkish Airlines. Flight time: ~7–8 hours direct.
Compare Birmingham to Dubai flights →
Edinburgh & Glasgow to Dubai
Direct Emirates flights from both Edinburgh and Glasgow to Dubai. Great for Scottish travellers. Flight time: ~8 hours.
Compare Edinburgh & Glasgow to Dubai flights →
Newcastle to Dubai
Direct Emirates flights from Newcastle to Dubai. Flight time: ~7–8 hours.
Compare Newcastle to Dubai flights →
Flights to GITEX Dubai from Around the World
GITEX attracts a global audience. Sky Voyage can help with flights from:
- India — Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi
- Pakistan — Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Multan, Peshawar, Sialkot
- USA — New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, Dallas
- Australia — Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane
- Canada — Toronto, Vancouver
- South Africa — Johannesburg, Cape Town
- Europe — Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands
- Middle East — Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman
- Singapore, Malaysia, Nigeria and more
Not sure which route works best? WhatsApp our travel team with your departure city and dates.
Best Airlines to Fly to GITEX Dubai
| Airline | Best for | Direct UK–Dubai? | Key UK airports |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emirates | Wide UK network | Yes | LHR, LGW, STN, MAN, BHX, EDI, GLA, NCL |
| British Airways | Heathrow + Avios | Yes | LHR |
| Virgin Atlantic | Premium travel | Route dependent | LHR |
| Qatar Airways | One-stop + South Asia connections | No — via Doha | LHR, MAN, BHX, EDI |
| Etihad Airways | Abu Dhabi connection | No — via Abu Dhabi | LHR, MAN, BHX |
| Turkish Airlines | One-stop + regional UK | No — via Istanbul | LHR, MAN, BHX, EDI, GLA |
| Saudia | Saudi connection | No — via Jeddah | LHR, MAN |
| Oman Air | Muscat connection | No — via Muscat | LHR, MAN |
| Singapore Airlines | Asia-Pacific connections | No — via SIN | LHR, MAN |
Schedules are seasonal and subject to change. Always confirm current routes and availability before booking.
Best Hotels Near GITEX Dubai 2026
Because GITEX has moved to Expo City Dubai, hotel selection should focus on properties near the new venue or along the Dubai Metro route for easy access.
Closest to Expo City Dubai
- Expo City hotels (walking distance to venue)
- Properties along the Dubai Metro red line
- Hotels near UAE Exchange station
Best luxury hotels
- 5-star Dubai properties in Marina, Downtown or Jumeirah
- Premium hotels with business facilities
Best business hotels
- Hotels with meeting facilities, strong Wi-Fi and workspace
- Properties with easy Metro/taxi connectivity to Expo City
Budget hotels
- ibis, Premier Inn and similar budget brands
- Apartment hotels for longer stays
- Properties accessible via Metro
Need a hotel for GITEX? WhatsApp Sky Voyage with your dates and preferred budget. Our travel agent can help you find suitable accommodation as part of your Dubai trip.
The official GITEX website has a dedicated hotel-booking section for the 2026 event — check there for official partner hotels.
GITEX Dubai 2026 Travel Packages
Sky Voyage GITEX Travel Assistance
We help you plan your complete trip around GITEX GLOBAL 2026, not as an official package but as a tailored travel arrangement.
Return Flights
From the UK and international departure points
Hotel Accommodation
Near Expo City Dubai or along the Metro route
Airport Transfers
DXB or DWC to your hotel and venue
Travel/Visa Guidance
Where applicable for your nationality
Date Planning
Arrive in time for the Scale Summit
Baggage Options
Compare fare baggage allowances
Local Transport
Metro, taxi and transfer guidance
WhatsApp Support
Direct contact with our team
Optional Sightseeing
Extend your Dubai trip after GITEX
Plan Your GITEX Dubai Trip With Sky Voyage
Send us: Departure city + travel dates + number of travellers + hotel preference
Our travel agent will help you plan the trip.
GITEX Dubai 2026 Trip Cost
Your total GITEX trip cost depends on departure airport, travel dates, cabin class, hotel category and duration. Below are general budget categories to help you plan.
Budget Trip
Economy flight + budget hotel + basic transport
Ideal for solo travellers and startups on a budget
Business Trip
Economy/Premium economy + business hotel + transfers
Great for corporate attendees and professionals
Premium Trip
Business/First class + 5-star hotel + private transfers
For C-suite, investors and luxury travellers
How much does it cost to attend GITEX? Event ticket prices vary by pass type. Flights and hotels depend on your choices. Contact Sky Voyage for a personalised quote.
How to Get to Dubai Exhibition Centre for GITEX
- From Dubai International Airport (DXB): Metro (red line to UAE Exchange, then bus/taxi), taxi (30–50 min), private transfer, rental car.
- From Dubai city centre: Metro (red line), taxi, ride-hailing apps (Uber/Careem), private transfer.
- From Downtown Dubai: Metro (red line), taxi, private transfer.
- From Dubai Marina: Metro (red line via DMCC), taxi, private transfer.
- From Deira / Old Dubai: Metro (red line), taxi, private transfer.
- From Abu Dhabi: Car (approx. 1.5 hours), bus, private transfer.
Nearest Metro station: UAE Exchange station (red line) — from there, take a bus or taxi to Expo City Dubai.
Need airport transfers for GITEX? Ask our travel team about adding transfers to your Sky Voyage trip.
GITEX Dubai 2026 Schedule & Programme
The detailed conference sessions, speakers and programme information are updated by the organisers as the event approaches. Check the official GITEX website for the latest agenda.
- 7 December: GITEX Scale Summit (leadership event)
- 8–11 December: Main GITEX GLOBAL exhibition and conferences
- 8–10 December: Expand North Star (startup & investor event)
- Daily: Keynote speeches, panel discussions, networking sessions, startup pitches, investor meetings
GITEX Dubai 2026 Speakers
The GITEX speaker programme is updated by the organisers as the event approaches. Check the official speaker programme for the latest confirmed names in technology, government, investment and industry.
GITEX Dubai 2026 Exhibitors
Thousands of companies exhibit at GITEX across sectors including AI, cybersecurity, cloud, fintech, robotics, government technology, enterprise software and more. Major global tech companies, startups and government pavilions are represented.
AI at GITEX Dubai 2026
Artificial intelligence is one of the biggest themes at GITEX 2026, with a major focus on:
- Generative AI — content creation, language models, creative AI
- Agentic AI — autonomous AI agents and decision-making
- AI Infrastructure — compute, data, deployment
- Robotics — industrial robotics, autonomous systems
- Enterprise AI — business applications and productivity
- AI Startups — emerging AI companies and investment
- AI Cybersecurity — AI-powered threat detection and response
- AI Investment — funding trends and opportunities
- Future of Work — AI's impact on jobs and skills
AI is a hot topic for GITEX 2026 — if you're attending for AI, plan your schedule around the AI-focused conference tracks and exhibitor pavilions.
Expand North Star Dubai 2026
Expand North Star runs 8–10 December 2026 at Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai, alongside GITEX GLOBAL. It is the world's largest startup and investment event, attracting founders, investors, accelerators and innovation leaders from around the world.
- Startup pitching competitions
- Investor meetings and networking
- Exhibitor pavilions for emerging companies
- Conference tracks on scaling, fundraising and innovation
- Global startup ecosystem showcase
Attending both GITEX GLOBAL and Expand North Star? Sky Voyage can help arrange flights and accommodation for the full duration of your Dubai trip.
GITEX Dubai for Startups & Founders
GITEX and Expand North Star are essential events for startups, offering:
- Exposure to a global audience of investors and corporates
- Pitching opportunities on major stages
- Networking with fellow founders and ecosystem leaders
- Access to investor meetings and funding conversations
- Visibility in the world's largest tech event
Startup travel tip: Book flights and hotels early — December is a busy month in Dubai, and GITEX attracts tens of thousands of attendees.
Business Travel to GITEX Dubai
For corporate travellers attending GITEX, we can help with:
- Business-class flights
- Hotels near the venue with meeting facilities
- Airport transfers and local transport
- Flexible ticketing and extra baggage
- Corporate travel support
How to Make the Most of GITEX Dubai
Networking is a key part of the GITEX experience. Here are some tips:
- Plan your meetings in advance — use the official app or LinkedIn
- Visit startup and investor pavilions for unexpected connections
- Attend side events and receptions
- Bring plenty of business cards
- Follow up with contacts promptly after the event
- Use the networking lounges and meeting areas
- Book meetings with exhibitors and speakers where possible
What to Do in Dubai After GITEX
GITEX ends on Friday 11 December, making it easy to extend into the weekend. Popular Dubai activities include:
- Burj Khalifa — the world's tallest building
- Dubai Mall — shopping, dining and entertainment
- Museum of the Future — innovative exhibitions
- Dubai Marina — waterfront dining and views
- Palm Jumeirah — beaches and luxury resorts
- Desert Safari — dunes, dining and culture
- Old Dubai — traditional souks and Dubai Creek
- Abu Dhabi Day Trip — Grand Mosque, Louvre and more
Turn Your GITEX Business Trip Into a Dubai Holiday
The official programme ends on Friday 11 December, giving visitors a natural opportunity to extend into the weekend.
4-Day GITEX Trip
7 December → 11 December
5-Day GITEX Trip
6 December → 11 December
7-Day Dubai + GITEX Trip
6 December → 13 December (includes weekend)
Business + Leisure
GITEX + Dubai sightseeing + Abu Dhabi
Suggested extension: Stay through the weekend (12–13 December) to enjoy Dubai's attractions without the event crowds.
Dubai Visa for GITEX 2026
UAE entry requirements vary by nationality. Key points:
- UK passport holders: Visa on arrival (30 days, extendable)
- US, EU, Australia, Canada: Visa on arrival for most nationalities
- Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nigeria: Visa required — apply in advance
- Passport validity: At least 6 months from date of entry
- Business vs tourist: Check which visa type applies to your attendance
Important: UAE visa rules can change. Always check the official UAE immigration guidance before booking travel.
Sky Voyage can provide visa guidance where applicable as part of your travel arrangement.
What to Pack for GITEX Dubai
- Passport — with at least 6 months validity
- Visa/entry documents — if required for your nationality
- Event badge/registration confirmation — printed or digital
- Business cards — plenty for networking
- Laptop & charger — for meetings and notes
- Power bank — to keep devices charged
- Comfortable shoes — the exhibition is large
- Business attire — smart wear for conferences and meetings
- Medications — with prescriptions if needed
- Travel insurance — essential for any trip
- eSIM or roaming plan — stay connected
What to wear: Business attire is standard at GITEX. Dubai's December weather is mild (average 24°C/75°F), but indoor venues are air-conditioned, so layers are recommended.
GITEX Dubai 2026 — Frequently Asked Questions
What is GITEX Dubai 2026?
GITEX GLOBAL 2026 is the world's largest technology and AI event, taking place 7–11 December 2026 at Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai. It brings together global tech leaders, startups, investors and innovators.
When is GITEX Dubai 2026?
GITEX Dubai 2026 runs from 7–11 December 2026. The GITEX Scale Summit takes place on 7 December, with the main Expo and dealmaking programme running 8–11 December. Expand North Star runs 8–10 December.
Where is GITEX 2026 being held?
GITEX 2026 is being held at Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), Expo City Dubai. This is a new venue for 2026, moving from the Dubai World Trade Centre.
How much are GITEX Dubai 2026 tickets?
GITEX ticket prices vary by pass type — visitor, conference, delegate, startup, investor and media passes are available. Check the official GITEX website for current pricing. Sky Voyage can help with flights and hotels, not event admission.
How do I register for GITEX 2026?
Registration for GITEX GLOBAL 2026 is handled through the official GITEX website. Sky Voyage can help you plan the travel side of your trip, including flights, hotels and transfers.
What are the dates for GITEX 2026?
The key dates are: 7 December 2026 – GITEX Scale Summit; 8–11 December 2026 – Main GITEX GLOBAL programme; 8–10 December 2026 – Expand North Star.
What is the GITEX Scale Summit?
The GITEX Scale Summit is a high-level leadership event taking place on 7 December 2026, the day before the main GITEX GLOBAL exhibition opens.
What is Expand North Star?
Expand North Star is the world's largest startup and investment event, running alongside GITEX GLOBAL from 8–10 December 2026 at Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai.
What is the best airline to fly to GITEX Dubai?
Emirates offers the widest UK network to Dubai, while British Airways and Virgin Atlantic are strong London options. Qatar Airways, Etihad and Turkish Airlines offer one-stop connections. Compare live fares for your departure airport and dates.
How long is the flight from London to Dubai for GITEX?
A direct flight from London to Dubai typically takes around 7 hours outbound, with return flights slightly longer due to prevailing winds.
What are the best hotels near GITEX Dubai 2026?
Since GITEX has moved to Expo City Dubai, hotels near the venue or along the Dubai Metro route are recommended. Options range from budget (ibis) to mid-range (4-star business hotels) and premium 5-star properties. Contact Sky Voyage for hotel recommendations based on your budget.
How do I get to GITEX from Dubai Airport?
From Dubai International Airport (DXB), you can reach Expo City Dubai via Metro (red line to UAE Exchange station, then a bus/taxi), taxi, private transfer or rental car. The journey typically takes 30–50 minutes depending on traffic.
Is GITEX free to attend?
GITEX is not free — paid registration and passes are required. Various pass types are available depending on your attendee profile.
Who attends GITEX?
GITEX attracts technology professionals, founders, investors, startups, enterprises, government officials, AI innovators, cybersecurity experts, fintech leaders and digital transformation specialists from around the world.
What companies attend GITEX?
Thousands of companies attend GITEX, from global tech giants to emerging startups. AI, cloud, cybersecurity, fintech, robotics and government technology are heavily represented.
Who are the GITEX 2026 speakers?
GITEX speakers include global technology leaders, government ministers, startup founders, investors and industry experts. Check the official GITEX speaker programme for the latest confirmed names.
What happens at GITEX?
GITEX features exhibitions, conferences, keynote speeches, networking events, startup pitches, investor meetings, product launches and dealmaking sessions across technology, AI, cybersecurity, cloud, fintech and more.
What should I wear to GITEX Dubai?
Business attire is recommended for GITEX — smart business wear for conferences and meetings. Comfortable shoes are essential as the exhibition is large. Dubai's December weather is mild, but indoor venues are air-conditioned.
How much does a GITEX Dubai trip cost?
Trip cost varies widely: budget trips (flight + budget hotel) start lower, while premium trips (business class + 5-star hotel + transfers) are significantly higher. Contact Sky Voyage for a personalised quote based on your requirements.
Can students attend GITEX?
Yes, students can attend GITEX with appropriate registration. Student and academic passes are often available — check the official GITEX website for student attendance options.
What is the GITEX 2026 schedule?
The schedule includes the Scale Summit on 7 December, followed by the main exhibition, conferences and networking from 8–11 December. Expand North Star runs 8–10 December. Check the official GITEX programme for detailed session timings.
Is GITEX good for startups?
Yes — GITEX and Expand North Star are excellent for startups, offering pitching opportunities, investor meetings, networking and visibility to a global audience of technology professionals and investors.
Can I extend my GITEX trip into a Dubai holiday?
Yes — GITEX ends on Friday 11 December, making it easy to extend into the weekend for sightseeing in Dubai. Popular activities include Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, desert safari, Marina and Abu Dhabi day trips.
What is the best time to book GITEX flights?
December is a busy travel period for Dubai. Booking several months ahead generally secures better fares and seat availability. Contact Sky Voyage early for flight and hotel options for GITEX 2026.
Does Sky Voyage sell GITEX tickets?
No — Sky Voyage is a travel agency, not the event organiser. We help with flights, hotels, transfers and travel arrangements for your GITEX trip. Event registration is handled through the official GITEX website.
What visa do I need for GITEX Dubai?
UAE visa requirements depend on your nationality. UK, US and many European passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival. Travellers from Pakistan, India and other countries should check UAE visa requirements well in advance.
What is the nearest Metro station to GITEX?
The nearest Metro station to Dubai Exhibition Centre is the UAE Exchange station on the red line, from which you can take a bus or taxi to Expo City Dubai.
How far is Expo City Dubai from Dubai Airport?
Expo City Dubai is approximately 40-50 km from Dubai International Airport (DXB), with a typical transfer time of 30–50 minutes depending on traffic and time of day.
What technology sectors are covered at GITEX?
GITEX covers AI, generative AI, agentic AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing, fintech, robotics, digital transformation, government technology, enterprise software, IoT and emerging technologies.
When is the Dubai Shopping Festival 2026-27?
The Dubai Shopping Festival 2026-27 is tentatively expected to run from around mid-December 2026 through to late January 2027. GITEX attendees can extend their trip to catch the start of DSF — read more.
What is the best airline for GITEX from Manchester?
Emirates offers a direct Manchester–Dubai service. Qatar Airways, Etihad and Turkish Airlines offer one-stop options via their hubs. Compare live fares for your specific dates. Compare now →
What is the best airline for GITEX from Birmingham?
Emirates offers a direct Birmingham–Dubai service. Qatar Airways, Etihad and Turkish Airlines offer one-stop options. Compare now →
What is the best airline for GITEX from Edinburgh?
Emirates offers a direct Edinburgh–Dubai service. Qatar Airways and Turkish Airlines offer one-stop options. Compare now →
Planning Your Trip to GITEX Dubai?
Don't worry about arranging everything separately. Skyvoyage can help you plan your complete Dubai trip around GITEX GLOBAL 2026.
Talk to a Sky Voyage Travel Agent
WhatsApp us with your departure city, preferred travel dates, number of travellers and hotel requirements. Our travel agent will help you plan the trip around GITEX.
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