For more than four decades, the Gulf Information Technology Exhibition commonly known as GITEX in Dubai has converged the best minds, future-focused government leaders, and the most visionary enterprises and start-ups to scrutinize, challenge, define, and empower the digital agendas of the world.
Taking place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) until 18 October, GITEX GLOBAL presents its biggest, most international edition in its 44th year, welcoming over 200,000 visitors, 6,500 exhibitors, 1,800 startups, 1,200 investors alongside governments from more than 180 countries.
This years’ edition paid special attention to Artificial Intelligence as the most common embodiment of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and its transformative impact across various sectors. International exhibitors presented the most groundbreaking innovations helping shape the future of society and industry.
Now, imagine cruising through the streets in a sleek sports car and then seamlessly taking off perhaps to dodge the annoying traffic jam in our roads. This futuristic vision may soon become a reality, as Xpeng Aeroht showcased its prototype flying car during the GITEX Technology Exhibition.
The vehicle, designed to resemble a conventional sports car, features hidden propellers that unfold when it’s time to take flight. The steering wheel retracts, allowing the driver to control the vehicle using a joystick. This innovative two-seater can vertically ascend to altitudes of up to 1,000 meters and operates solely on electricity, marking a significant leap towards sustainable urban mobility.
“This is a working prototype that will be available for sale in 2030,” announced Mingquan Qiu, Vice President for Xpeng Aeroht.
Also on display was the air scooter, a single-seater vehicle produced by the French company Zapata, renowned for its flyboards. Available for preorder, the air scooter is set to be delivered by 2025.
“People will be able to go into a flight center and fly the air scooter over scenic routes. They will also be able to purchase it personally and use it in approved places. The air scooter is available for preorder and will be delivered by 2025,” noted the Marketing Manager for Zapata Emilie La Via.
Intelligent service robots that are good in delivery making it a versatile solution for high-traffic environments like restaurants and retail spaces were also a scene to behold but what grabbed the attention of many was the humanoid robots. It was interesting to see how the humanoid robots supplement the dwindling labor force, as businesses across industries face ongoing staffing shortages and supply chain pressures.
“Our humanoid robots are not designed to replace or take people’s jobs. They are meant to assist and perhaps take up roles that could be monotonous in nature” commented Marcus Harold, Product Development Manager for Engineered Arts, UK.
Europe had a major presence in this year’s edition of GITEX Global, the biggest in the event’s history with the region’s tech industry projected to grow by 12% by the end of this year.
During the week-long tech event, GITEX Global announced further expansion into Africa with the launch of GITEX NIGERIA. Scheduled to make its debut in September 2025, the highly anticipated event is set to revolutionize Nigeria’s burgeoning technology sector. The previous editions of GITEX Africa have been held in Marrakech, Morocco.
