Let me start with the fact that it was my first time in Dubai. Yep, I skipped this destination for too long; it’s a fact. I’ve heard lots of good things about the city and its vibe. I must say that it did exceed my expectations.

Clean, safe, friendly, modern and full of opportunities, Dubai has everything for entrepreneurs, startups and business-minded individuals to thrive.

In a nutshell, if you haven’t yet visited Dubai, you should!

What is GITEX?

This year, GITEX was all about embracing AI in every aspect. With a strong emphasis on AI, GITEX brought together the world’s largest assembly of AI innovators, developers, and influencers.

GITEX, which stands for Gulf Information Technology Exhibition, is well-known for highlighting major technology trends in different areas, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Digital Transformation, Internet of Things (IoT), Virtual Reality (VR), and Augmented Reality (AR).

Objectverse founders at GITEX Global 2023

My business partner Bence and I(Santi) have decided to visit GITEX pretty late. We booked our tickets less than two weeks before the event. Knowing that many companies are preparing for eight months, we needed to figure out where to start with the overwhelming number of exhibitors and attendees.

We have an excuse for being so late. We have just raised the first round of investment for our startup – Objectverse, and GITEX Global was a perfect place to do some serious networking and explore exciting opportunities.

GITEX Global at Dubai World Trade Centre

We started our exploration with an opening speech from His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy. 

The minister covered the growth plans for the economy and touched on various incentives for startups and businesses, as well as a strong focus for the UAE government on innovative tech. Given what UAE achieved so far, all those plans seem entirely realistic to me, and this again proves why Dubai is a truly great place for innovative startups.

However, our plan at GITEX was to improvise as we went through this vast amount of exhibitors in search of opportunities, partnerships and collaboration.

One of the highlights of the first day was LetinAR, a manufacturer of lenses for wearable Augmented and Mixed reality devices.

We tried the KeplAR EV-Kit from glasses with the B40 lens module. Its low power usage and lightweight build make it ideal for creating applications for both daily use and industrial settings. We were amazed by its expansive 45-degree field of vision.

At Objectverse, we are experimenting with various wearable AR devices, and what LetinAR has developed is bringing us closer to the mass adoption of lightweight wearable AR devices. It’s fascinating technology!

Another interesting exhibitor was Meituan UAS, a division of China’s largest food delivery platform, Meituan, which has created practical low-altitude logistics solutions for delivering food and everyday essentials.

We have tried it ourselves, and while there are still many regulation and safety concerns, UAV delivery seems closer to our doorsteps than ever! 

After Bence got his fruit salad delivered by UAV, we headed for another dose of innovation and technology. From the first flying taxi in Dubai to advanced mobility and autonomy for self-evolving digital twins, we had a chance to glimpse the near future literally. 

Expand North Star at Dubai Harbour

At the North Star event this year, top startups from 100+ countries were showcased, attracting 1,000 venture capitalists seeking investment opportunities and portfolio additions. The event featured an exceptional content program that delved into the major narratives of 2023, including the surge of generative AI startups and presentations by over 70 unicorn founders sharing their insights.

It was a perfect day to network with fellow entrepreneurs and explore innovative technologies, common challenges, creative ideas, and partnership opportunities.

We had the chance to explore a media-free holographic display solution, the concept of a hydrogen-powered flying race car, personalized product discovery experiences powered by AI sales avatars and many more exciting innovative ideas, products and companies.

Special thank you to all startups, founders and entrepreneurs who shared their business stories, ideas and vision for a common better future! GITEX Global 2023 was a blast!