Dubai: WORLDEF Dubai 2026, hosted in Dubai for the second consecutive year under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), continued its activities with the participation of more than 150 speakers and nearly 18,000 visitors from 80 countries. The forum, organized by Dubai CommerCity, spans three days and concludes tomorrow, bringing together leading government entities, institutions, and both local and international organizations specializing in digital trade.
According to Emirates News Agency, discussions throughout the first and second days focused on the accelerating impact of emerging technologies in reshaping global trade ecosystems. These discussions highlighted the role of technologies in enhancing market connectivity and supporting the transition towards a more integrated digital economy. Held in collaboration with WORLDEF, the international platform dedicated to the global expansion and growth of cross-border e-commerce and digital commerce companies, the forum's sessions covered strategic themes including investment in advanced technologies and strengthening international partnerships.
Amna Lootah, Director-General of Dubai CommerCity, emphasized the advanced position Dubai has established as a pivotal hub for digital trade. The forum's momentum reflects Dubai's ability to bring together decision-makers, experts, investors, and entrepreneurs on a single platform. Discussions underscored the future of digital trade's linkage to agile operating models, digitally integrated supply chains, and the deployment of advanced technologies within regulatory frameworks aligned with global transformations.
Amal Dokhan, Managing Partner at 500 Global MENA, highlighted the factors enhancing the region's investment appeal during a session on early-stage investment opportunities in MENA. She noted the supportive role of governments through technology-enabling regulatory frameworks and the rising consumer adoption of digital solutions. Dokhan also mentioned that early-stage funding has become more selective, with artificial intelligence expected to attract significant investments alongside fintech, direct-to-consumer models, and other sectors.
Mitch Bittermann, Senior Vice President of Commercial at Dubai CommerCity, outlined the integrated ecosystem provided by the free zone to support trade flows and strengthen connectivity between supply chains and global markets during a session moderated by Orxan Isayev, Vice President at WORLDEF. Another session on logistics trends amid growing cross-border trade requirements featured industry experts discussing the future of logistics and sustainability.
On the sidelines of the forum, Oraseya Capital, the investment arm of DIEZ, organized the Dune initiative, bringing together investors in the startup industry and venture capital. This initiative facilitated investment exchanges and future opportunities exploration, culminating in a startup competition offering AED 100,000 in funding. The award was won by 'Miftah,' a PropTech company that introduced an integrated solution for the rental market in Dubai, streamlining the leasing process through full automation.
The forum's third day will feature additional specialized sessions on strategic topics and an exhibition with more than 160 exhibitors, including global and regional companies across digital commerce, technology, logistics, and financial services sectors. The exhibition provides opportunities for visitors to engage with exhibitors, explore innovations, and network for commercial partnerships.