Robotics and drones will demonstrate how the supply chain is evolving at the upcoming Gitex Technology Week, the largest technology exchange and marketplace for the Middle East and Africa, in Dubai, UAE.

Under the theme ‘Reimagining Realities’, Gitex 2016 will take place from October 16-20. The event will feature international keynote speakers and dignitaries from around the globe, and highlight how information technology can transform businesses. 

Trixie LohMirmand, senior vice-president, exhibitions and events management at Dubai World Trade Centre, commented: “Gitex is at the global nexus of trade and technology innovation, with the UAE government a leader in using technology to transform daily lives and businesses. The event is the single-most powerful and influential sourcing platform for tech solutions and innovations in the region.”

The Middle East IT spend is set to reach $212.9 billion in 2016, a 37 per cent increase from the previous year, she noted, adding that nearly 22,000 executives from top corporations are expected to attend the event.

“Gitex provides a gateway to the fast-growth Middle East, Africa, and South Asia markets, and a global platform for sharing knowledge and innovations from students to start-ups,” said Mohammed Areff, vice president of Meta at Avaya. 

This year’s Gitex features a new interactive Immersive Tech section which will show how virtual reality (VR) headsets and augmented reality (AR) tools are being used in live surgery.

The new Gitex Startup Movement is set to be the most global event of its kind, connecting over 400 start-ups from 35 countries, and 1,000 entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, angel investors, government buyers, and mentors.

Gitex Vertical Days will act as a platform for IT leaders to address industry issues and learn from international thought-leaders. 3D printing technology exhibited at Gitex will demonstrate how an array of printers and makers creating everything from medical supplies and automobile parts shape the vision of 3D printing technology.