Egypt is stepping into the global spotlight as a hub for artificial intelligence, set to host the inaugural Ai Everything Middle East & Africa (MEA) in Cairo from 10–12 February 2026. Organised by GITEX GLOBAL and hosted by Egypt’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) in partnership with the Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA), the event positions Egypt as a regional powerhouse in AI adoption and innovation.
Egypt’s AI Momentum
Egypt ranks among the world’s top 10 nations in AI and Machine Learning, and the only African country in that tier, according to the 2024 GBS World Competitiveness Index. Guided by its National AI Strategy (2025–2030), the country is embedding AI across key sectors, including digital health, fintech, manufacturing, semiconductors, cybersecurity, energy, education, and public services.
The launch of Ai Everything MEA aligns with this roadmap, creating a global platform for enterprises, startups, policymakers, and academia from over 60 countries to converge in Cairo.
Strategic Vision and Regional Impact
Dr. Amr Talaat, Egypt’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, highlighted the country’s ambitions:
“Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming the architecture of global competitiveness, and Egypt is determined not only to adapt but to shape this shift. Our National AI Strategy reflects a bold vision to position Egypt as a leading force in responsible AI adoption, policy innovation, and inclusive digital development.”
Eng. Ahmed El Zaher, CEO of ITIDA, added:
“The launch of Ai Everything MEA marks a strategic milestone in our journey to position Egypt as a regional AI leader and a hub for innovation. Hosting this global summit in Cairo reinforces Egypt’s ambition to be a key contributor in shaping the future of AI, forging impactful partnerships that scale technology from our region to the world.”
Global Tech Ecosystem Converges in Cairo
The three-day event will feature:
- A high-level AI summit with policymakers and enterprise leaders.
- An immersive exhibition showcasing frontier AI applications.
- Over 200 venture capitalists managing more than US$1 trillion in assets are exploring opportunities in Egyptian and regional startups.
- A youth-tech academy, launching to channel Egypt’s annual pool of 750,000 university graduates into AI-driven industries.
Leading global tech players such as Atos, Cyshield, HPE, and IBM are confirmed to participate.
Building Egypt’s Role as a Regional Nexus
By hosting Ai Everything MEA, Egypt underscores its ambition to be the regional nexus for AI collaboration, connecting global expertise with local priorities. With strategic investments in digital infrastructure and an expanding ecosystem of startups, Egypt is strengthening its digital economy and attracting deep-tech investments.
Trixie LohMirmand, EVP of Dubai World Trade Centre and organiser of GITEX, emphasized:
“AI has levelled the digital playing field, and new opportunities are emerging for countries. Ai Everything MEA will be the force multiplier supporting Egypt’s mission to build empowering outcomes at scale.”
