The Dubai AI & Web3 Festival, held on September 11-12, 2024, at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, gathered over 6,800 delegates from more than 100 countries. The event, organized by the Dubai AI campus in collaboration with DIFC and the Office of the Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, highlighted the business opportunities offered by artificial intelligence and Web3 technologies. Key announcements included the launch of the “Dubai AI License” and the concept of “AI as a Service”.
A Festival Highlighting Technological Innovation
The festival’s opening was graced by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The event featured over 100 exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge emerging technologies. Government officials, academics, business leaders, and representatives from AI and Web3 companies participated in this major event. Competitions, such as the World Cup of Future Technologies, were organized, providing a platform for companies to showcase their innovations.
Ambitious Projects and Collaborations
DIFC announced the launch of the “Dubai AI License,” a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at attracting more businesses to Dubai. Additionally, the concept of “AI as a Service” was introduced to help companies assess their AI capabilities, identify opportunities, and implement AI strategies. The Dubai AI campus also signed agreements with several companies, including Dubai Civil Defence, Holon, Kearney, NayaOne, SIEF, Visa, Warba Bank, and Zurich.
Towards Expansion and a Promising Future
The Dubai AI campus aims to attract over 500 companies by 2028, create more than 3,000 jobs, expand the campus to over 100,000 square feet, and generate $300 million in investments. The second edition of the festival is scheduled for November 2025, with the ambition of becoming one of the largest AI events globally by 2027.
The Dubai AI & Web3 Festival marked a significant milestone in Dubai’s journey to becoming a global leader in the digital economy. With its innovative initiatives and strong partnerships, the festival sets the stage for future advancements in AI and Web3 technologies. As the city continues to evolve as a tech innovation hub, the future looks promising for both local and global stakeholders.
