The high-profile event was organized by GITEX GLOBAL and hosted by Egypt’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology in partnership with the Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA).
It marked the official lead-up to the region’s largest AI technology week, scheduled for 11-12 February 2026.
Egypt’s AI ambition
The gathering highlighted Egypt’s plan to generate $42.7 billion annually from AI by 2030 and position Cairo as a hub for global AI cooperation.
Officials said AI Everything MEA Egypt is fully aligned with the country’s National AI Strategy 2025-2030, which focuses on outsourcing digital services, semiconductor and electronics manufacturing, supporting startups, and attracting international investment.
“AI today is no longer a trend; it is a core driver of economic and social transformation,” said ITIDA CEO Ahmed El-Zaher, emphasizing Egypt’s goal of becoming a trusted partner and regional centre for innovation.
Trixie LohMirmand, EVP of Dubai World Trade Centre and CEO of KAOUN International, called the Cairo edition part of an “AI renaissance” that will empower businesses, startups, and young talent in Egypt.
Egypt’s rise as an AI player
Minister of Communications and Information Technology Amr Talaat said Egypt’s hosting of the event shows international recognition of its progress in AI.
Since adopting its first AI strategy in 2019, Egypt has moved up 46 places in the Global AI Readiness Index, he added.
Talaat highlighted that the updated 2025-2030 strategy focuses on six pillars, including digital skills development, data governance, AI-driven growth in key sectors, and clear regulatory frameworks.
Industry leaders weigh in
The event ended with a panel on Egypt’s AI future featuring executives from IBM, HPE, Deloitte, WideBot AI, Intella, and Plug & Play Tech Centre.
IBM showcased its “watsonx” platform and AI cloud solutions for productivity and sustainability.
HPE highlighted its energy-efficient AI systems ranked among the world’s top performers, while Deloitte discussed scaling AI platforms to over 200,000 users.
WideBot AI and Intella focused on boosting the competitiveness of Egyptian AI startups, with Intella celebrating a $12.5 million Series A funding round.
Road to February 2026
The February 2026 summit is anticipated to draw participants from 60 countries, comprising AI companies, startups, investors, policymakers, and researchers.
The two-day event will feature discussions on AI infrastructure, responsible deployment, and applications in cybersecurity, healthtech, fintech, semiconductors, and digital services.
It will also host one of the region’s largest startup and investor gatherings, further cementing Cairo’s role as a growing centre for AI innovation in the Middle East and Africa.
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