Dubai AI Festival draws global spotlight with a powerful day one
Dubai AI Festival, part of Dubai AI Week, under the directives of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, UAE, kicked off to a resounding start on day one, setting the tone for what's quickly shaping up to be one of the region's most influential platforms for artificial intelligence and emerging technology. The festival is organised by Dubai AI Campus, in partnership with DIFC, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, and Digital Economy & Remote Work Applications Office to explore AI's transformative impact across industries.
With over large number of participants from across the globe, the opening day was a celebration of innovation, talent, and global collaboration – all unfolding in the heart of Dubai at Madinat Jumeirah. From headline discussions led by global policymakers and tech leaders, to live demonstrations of AI-powered tools transforming real-world sectors, day one offered an immersive window into how the world is thinking, and building, with AI.
Following a high-energy opening, day two of the Dubai AI Festival continues to draw global attention with a dynamic line-up of high-profile sessions, cutting-edge innovations, a buzzing exhibition floor, and unmatched networking opportunities.
At the heart of the day's agenda is FutureTech – a bold platform showcasing the ideas, talent, and technologies shaping what's next in AI.
FutureTech world cup – grand finale
The global pitch-off reaches its climax as top AI start-ups from around the world go head-to-head for international exposure, Dubai AI Licence, prestigious rewards and opportunities, and the coveted title of FutureTech World Cup Champion.
FutureTech launchpad
A stage for bold thinking, this platform features cutting-edge AI applications, visionary research, and disruptive solutions presented by academics, government bodies, and enterprise innovators.
FutureTech innovation programme
An international challenge spotlighting university students who are applying AI to real-world problems - from public health to sustainability - and pushing the boundaries of next-generation innovation.
FutureTech youth festival
More than 500 university students from across the UAE are participating in immersive workshops, interactive sessions, and guided tours around the venue to explore the intersection of talent, education, and the future of work.
FutureTech jobs
An on-ground career hub connecting ambitious professionals and graduates with over 150 opportunities across AI, IT, tech and data - offered by regional and global employers shaping the future of digital work.
The sponsors and partners of the festival include:
Dubai Future Foundation and DAMAC as co-hosts.
Al Fardan Exchange as founding partner.
Presight as the industry leader.
SENEN as 'Powered by' Sponsor.
Prypco as the PropTech partner.
EDGNEX Data Centres by DAMAC as the data centre partner.
WILLBANAH as diamond sponsor.
NIPA as the pavilion partner.
EY, Microsoft, Magure, and Ignyte as the gold sponsors.
Invest in Sharjah and Sharjah Research and Technology Innovation Park as the government partners.
As the city continues to drive conversations around regulation, innovation, and responsible AI adoption, Dubai AI Festival stands as a powerful signal of where the future is being built and who's building it.
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