Dubai Internet City at GITEX Asia: A Glimpse into Future Innovation

Dubai Internet City (DIC), the region’s premier hub for technology and innovation, wrapped up a successful appearance at the first-ever GITEX Asia, held in Singapore from April 23 to 25, 2025. Speaking at the event, Ammar Al Malik, Executive Vice President of TECOM Group – Commercial and General Manager of DIC, highlighted the growing strategic significance of Asian markets in the global tech landscape. He emphasized that this shift eastward presents immense potential for technology businesses and investors looking to drive the next wave of innovation, with Dubai positioned as a vital contributor.

A Legacy of Innovation Since 1999

Established by TECOM Group in 1999, Dubai Internet City has grown into a cornerstone of the Middle East’s digital economy. It serves as a base for major global technology companies, particularly those from leading Asian markets, including South Korea, Singapore, and India. This strategic presence underscores Dubai’s role as a central node in the worldwide tech network.

Empowering Global Collaboration and Innovation

Al Malik further noted that the success of Asian enterprises operating from DIC is a testament to the city's role in promoting diversity, fostering creativity, and unlocking the full potential of the digital economy.

He said: "Our leading technology community plays a pivotal role in enabling technology companies to contribute to the ability of Dubai and the UAE to continue to attract leading investors and innovators from around the world. We are proud of Dubai Internet City's contribution to shaping a future where technology empowers individuals, businesses and communities, in line with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the National Digital Economy Strategy

Strengthening Ties with Asia Through GITEX Asia

DIC is home to powerhouse firms in the AI and fintech sectors, such as SenseTime, Samsung, Alibaba Cloud, Tata Consultancy Services, PolicyBazaar, UnionPay, and Hero FinCorp—each contributing to the global tech ecosystem from Dubai.

Dubai Internet City’s presence at GITEX Asia was part of a broader initiative led by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, showcasing the emirate’s commitment to deepening engagement with its Asian partners. The event provided an excellent platform for dialogue and collaboration, further reinforcing DIC’s status as a global tech hub.

Building Long-Term Strategic Partnerships

In previous years, DIC has also formed key alliances with major Asian tech bodies. It signed partnerships with South Korea’s National IT Promotion Agency (KNPA) during GITEX Global 2023, and with India’s National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM) in 2024. These alliances aim to support business expansion, enhance talent development, and explore new areas of bilateral cooperation between the UAE and Asia.

Supporting Startups and Tech Growth with in5

DIC participated in GITEX Asia alongside in5, TECOM Group’s flagship startup incubator launched in 2013. This collaboration highlighted the breadth of support and growth opportunities available for both emerging startups and established tech players at Dubai Internet City.

A Thriving Tech Ecosystem in the Heart of Dubai

With a community of over 4,000 international and regional companies, DIC supports more than 31,000 professionals and hosts 19 innovation and R&D centres for tech giants such as 3M, Google, and Oracle. These numbers reflect its status as a powerhouse of digital transformation and a catalyst for future-ready innovation.

Part of a Larger Vision: TECOM’s Network of Business Communities

Dubai Internet City is one of the ten specialized business districts operated by TECOM Group. Others include Dubai Media City, Dubai Studio City, Dubai Production City, Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai International Academic City, Dubai Science Park, Dubai Industrial City, and Dubai Design District (d3). Together, they represent Dubai’s holistic vision to be a global leader in knowledge-based industries.