GITEX Global 2026 relocation to Expo City Dubai is set to mark a groundbreaking transformation in the world of global tech expos. The GITEX Global 2026 relocation will move the marquee event from its long-standing home at Dubai World Trade Centre to the brand-new Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) at Expo City. This shift reflects not just a venue change, but a bold statement about the future direction of technology, innovation ecosystems, and global collaboration.
The decision to relocate is underpinned by Dubai’s strategic vision to create a state-of-the-art infrastructure for exhibitions and innovation, and to support the accelerating pace of digital transformation worldwide. With a reported investment of $2.7 billion, DEC is being positioned as the region’s largest purpose-built indoor events facility.
A new location for GITEX Global 2026 relocation
GITEX Global and its companion event Expand North Star will move to DEC at Expo City in November 2026, although some sources indicate dates of December 7–11, 2026. The relocation is expected to provide more flexibility, larger space, and enhanced facilities to host more exhibitors, delegates, and side events than ever before.
DEC’s advantages include seamless connectivity, proximity to Dubai’s new international airport, extensive parking (over 20,000 spaces), and strong metro and road access. Organizers believe these features will reduce logistical friction and amplify attendee experience.
Expanding focus on future-critical industries
With the GITEX Global 2026 relocation, the thematic horizon is broadening. The event is realigning to place greater emphasis on quantum technologies, data centres, digital health, and Web 3.0 — sectors deemed crucial for the next wave of global growth. By embracing these future-critical domains, GITEX aims to attract a more diverse cross-sector audience and foster deeper collaboration.
Because GITEX is not only a trade exhibition but a meeting point for governments, corporates, startups, and investors, the new venue is expected to support expanded programming — more vertical tracks, bigger exhibition halls, and integrated startup-corporate interactions.
Symbolic end of an era
The move is also symbolic: after over four decades at the Dubai World Trade Centre, GITEX is bidding farewell to its original home. This shift underscores how much the scale and demands of the technology industry have evolved. The traditional venue, once adequate, is being eclipsed by the ambitions of tomorrow’s tech landscape.
Challenges and expectations ahead
While the relocation is promising, there are challenges. Infrastructure readiness, transport connectivity, visitor orientation in a new layout, and service logistics must all be flawless. The organizing bodies will need to ensure that the transition is seamless so that exhibitors and attendees do not face disruptions.
However, with careful planning and investment, the GITEX Global 2026 relocation has the potential to set a higher benchmark for tech events globally. If successful, GITEX could expand its influence and set a new standard for integrated expo experiences.
