GITEX GLOBAL 2026 is scheduled for 7 to 11 December 2026 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre, GITEX is one of the world’s largest technology and startup events, spanning enterprise technology, AI, cloud, cybersecurity, telecoms and a large startup and investor programme (Expand North Star).
Indian professionals travelling to attend generally need a short-term UAE visit visa, usually arranged before departure. An event registration or badge confirmation and, where relevant, a host or business-partner letter support the trip.
The event
About GITEX GLOBAL 2026
GITEX brings together technology vendors, system integrators, government buyers, telecom operators, investors and startups from around the world. The startup track alone is one of the largest of its kind, and the show is a major meeting point for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia technology market.
For Indian IT services companies and product firms, GITEX is a concentrated route to enterprise and government buyers across the Gulf and Africa. For Indian startups, the investor and accelerator programme offers exposure to regional funding and partnerships.
Plan the visit
Date and venue
Dubai Exhibition Centre / Dubai World Trade Centre
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Recent editions have used the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai in addition to the Dubai World Trade Centre. Confirm the exact venue, halls and opening hours on the official GITEX website before booking meetings.
Across the show floor
What visitors can explore
Devices & connectivity
Hardware, IoT, networks and connectivity infrastructure.
Enterprise & cloud
Software platforms, cloud services and digital-transformation tools.
AI & data
Artificial intelligence, analytics, cybersecurity and automation.
Startups & investment
Early-stage companies, accelerators and investor programmes.
Product groups reflect the show’s published profile and can change between editions. Check the official website for the confirmed hall plan and exhibitor directory.
Business value
Why Indian businesses should attend
Meet enterprise and government buyers, integrators and investors from dozens of markets in one location, launch products regionally, and hold partnership conversations that would otherwise take months of travel.
GITEX also gives Indian technology teams a direct read on Middle East and Africa demand — AI adoption, digital-government projects, cloud and cybersecurity priorities across the region.
Before you fly
How to register
- 1
Register online
Register as a trade visitor on the official GITEX GLOBAL website with your professional and company details, and save your confirmation or e-badge.
- 2
Request a letter for your visa file
Where the organiser offers a visa-support or invitation-letter service for registered visitors, request it early and keep it with your application documents.
- 3
Carry business identification
Bring your passport, registration confirmation, an employer covering letter and business cards to the venue.
For Indian passport holders
UAE Visit Visa for GITEX GLOBAL 2026
The United Arab Emirates does not have a visa-waiver arrangement with India for ordinary passport holders. Most Indian business visitors travel on a short-term UAE visit visa arranged before departure — usually through an airline, a hotel or a licensed UAE visa agent. Travellers who already hold a valid visa or residence permit from certain countries may be eligible for visa on arrival; eligibility rules change, so confirm your status before booking.
Commonly required documents
- Passport valid at least 6 months beyond the date of entry
- Confirmed return air ticket
- Hotel booking or host / sponsor details
- Expo registration or visitor badge confirmation
- Business-partner or sponsor letter, where applicable
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the stay
An invitation letter and expo registration support an application but do not guarantee approval, and processing times are not fixed. The final decision rests with the UAE authorities.
Quick answers
Frequently asked questions
Which visa do I need to attend GITEX from India?+
Most Indian business visitors travel on a short-term UAE visit visa arranged before departure through an airline, hotel or licensed UAE visa agent. Some travellers holding a valid visa or residence permit from certain countries may be eligible for visa on arrival — confirm your eligibility before booking.
Can the organiser provide a visa invitation letter?+
Dubai World Trade Centre events often provide visa-support services for registered international attendees and exhibitors. Check the current conditions on the official GITEX website.
Is GITEX open to the general public?+
GITEX is a trade and industry event. Passes are registered in advance; check the official website for access rules.
Does event registration guarantee visa approval?+
No. Registration and supporting letters can strengthen an application, but the UAE authorities make the final decision and processing times are not fixed.
How early should I arrange the visa?+
As soon as your travel is confirmed. December is peak season in Dubai and demand for flights, hotels and visa processing is high.
