AIBC Eurasia 2026 returns to Dubai for sixth edition
This week, AIBC Eurasia returns to the emirate of Dubai for its sixth edition. The city carries symbolic importance for the company, with May 2021 marking the first international event to be held outside of Malta, and a well-received return to the industry following a year of hiatus amidst the pandemic. What started as a necessary shift has now become the foundation for continued expansion.
AIBC Eurasia, which is being held at the Festival Arena, Festival City, opens its doors this morning, offering a unique opportunity to explore the latest in digital innovation and frontier technologies while connecting with the decision-makers shaping the future of the global digital economy. Powered by SoftConstruct AI, the summit this year is expected to attract almost 15,000 attendees, and with the support of UAE authorities and the business community, these numbers are expected to grow significantly over the next few years. Dubai combines cutting-edge infrastructure, visionary initiatives and a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem – making the city an ideal hub to bring together top-tier blockchain and crypto companies, industry leaders, investors and policymakers to the region, including 300 speakers and over 250 exhibitors and sponsors.
These next two days of conference and expo follow a cracking opener yesterday, with multiple activities taking place throughout the day. From golf tournaments and panel discussions to a boat cruise through Dubai’s iconic marina, and the first of two awards ceremonies, the first day was packed with high-energy networking.
As you head into the first day, here’s what’s not to miss:
There’s no shortage of networking planned. Not sure what you’re signed up for? Simply scan the QR code on your badge or visit your Match profile, and it will direct you to your ticket details, including the information about the networking events you have been invited to.
15:00 to 18:00 – Networking drinks at the VIP Platinum Lounge, Festival Arena
19:30 to 22:30 – Executive networking reception powered by Paybis at Zaytoun, level 5 in the Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City
19:30 to 22:30 – Executive networking reception powered by Oceanbase at Belgian Beer Cafe at the Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City
20:00 to 23:00 – AIBC Awards at the Al Baraha Ballroom, Level 1 – InterContinental Dubai Festival City
A conversation worth having: Explore the AIBC Eurasia conference stages
AIBC Stage
12:15 | Panel “Payments Orchestration and The Future of Digital Transactions”
12:50 | Panel “Trend or Trap: Tokenization of Real-World Assets (RWA)”
13:25 | Keynote “Future-Ready Leadership: Thriving as an Entrepreneur in a World of Rapid Innovation and Regulation” by Sara Al Madani
13:45 | Keynote “Keynote Speech by Dr Marwan Alzarouni”
14:00 | Keynote “Innovation City: Silicon Valley of the Middle East in Ras Al Khaimah” by Paul Dawalibi
14:55 | Panel “Come to Dubai: UAE as Global Crypto & Tech Hub”
SiGMA Group Stage
11:05 | Panel “Pathways & Play: Talent Development, Community, and Fan Engagement in MENA Esports”
12:05 “ Keynote “Who Governs Intelligence? Ethical Power in the Age of Artificial Minds”
13:25 | Panel “Performance Meets Authenticity: The New Rules of Influence in MENA”
14:35 | Panel “Flashy Thrills vs. Broken Sites: Why Some Brands Still Ignore Their Digital Foundations”
15:10 | Panel “Partner Power: Growth Through Affiliates & Collaborations”
There’s more of everything tomorrow, including a full conference agenda. Round things off with a night to remember at the SiGMA Closing Party. Open to all ticket holders, the event promises an unforgettable evening at Helipad by Frozen Cherry. Perched on the south helipad of Festival City Mall, the venue will come alive with the electrifying sounds of headliner iLEE, supported by opening sets from JEA and Heroine, before Yuliya Sehen brings the night to a spectacular close.
