In the last few years, the GCC has been home to some of the biggest technology events, attracting startups, multinational companies, investors, policymakers, and innovators from all around the world.
These events provide opportunities to launch products or services, announce partnerships, connect with investors, generate leads, strengthen industry relationships, network and stay ahead of market trends.
Whether you are an established technology company or an ambitious startup, Sherpa Communications experts recommend these five events worth adding to your calendar to build visibility and stand out in a competitive market.
1. LEAP 2026
Date: 31 August – 3 September, 2026 | Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
LEAP has established itself as one of the world’s largest technology events, bringing together thousands of startups, technology companies, investors, government representatives, and global innovators. The event covers a broad range of sectors, including artificial intelligence, fintech, cloud computing, digital infrastructure, smart cities, AI, and enterprise technology.
For businesses looking to expand into Saudi Arabia or broader Middle East, LEAP offers direct access to one of the region’s fastest-growing technology ecosystems and provides valuable networking opportunities with decision-makers across both the public and private sectors.
2. GISEC Global 2026
Date: 16 – 18 September 2026 | Location: Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai, UAE
As cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated, cybersecurity has become a business priority across every industry. GISEC Global brings together information security experts, government agencies, CISOs, technology providers, and enterprise leaders to discuss emerging threats and the latest security solutions.
Companies specialising in cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, enterprise software, and digital services can use the event to demonstrate expertise, strengthen industry relationships, and connect with key decision-makers across the region.
3. AI Everything Global 2026
Date: 5 – 7 October 2026 | Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
Artificial intelligence continues to reshape every industry, and AI Everything Global places those conversations at the centre of its programme. The event brings together AI companies, researchers, policymakers, investors, and business leaders to explore enterprise AI, automation, robotics, machine learning, and the latest technological breakthroughs.
For organisations developing AI solutions or integrating AI into their operations, the event provides an ideal platform to showcase innovation, build partnerships, and engage directly with industry leaders.
4. Expand North Star 2026
Date: 8–10 December 2026 | Location: Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai, UAE
Expand North Star is one of the world’s largest events for startups, investors, and entrepreneurs. It connects founders with venture capital firms, accelerators, government organisations, and technology leaders from around the world, creating opportunities to secure investment, enter new markets, and build strategic partnerships.
For startups and scaleups, the event offers much more than networking. It provides a platform to increase visibility, validate ideas, and connect with the people who can help accelerate business growth.
5. GITEX Global 2026
Date: 7 – 11 December 2026 | Location: Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai, UAE
Few technology events rival the scale and international reach of GITEX Global. Every year, thousands of exhibitors and visitors travel to Dubai to launch products, announce partnerships, explore new technologies, and build strategic business relationships.
Covering everything from AI and cybersecurity to fintech, cloud computing, mobility, and digital transformation, GITEX remains one of the most influential technology events in the world and an essential platform for companies looking to expand across the GCC and beyond.
Tip: How to be seen during these events
Securing a stand or attending an event is only one part of the opportunity. The entire business community is very active during this time, constantly checking the news. Businesses that create the greatest impact begin building awareness well before the event starts and continue engaging with their audience long after it ends.
A strategic PR campaign can help maximise every stage of event participation. Before and during the event, businesses can announce their participation, promote product or service launches through a press release, secure media interviews and have expert pieces published. After the event, the momentum can continue with follow-up stories, thought leadership articles, and customer success stories. By combining event participation with a well-planned B2B PR strategy, businesses can increase brand awareness, strengthen credibility, generate valuable media coverage, and create meaningful opportunities that continue long after the event has ended.
-ends-