Vietnam’s global tech ambitions took a major leap forward today with the official announcement that GITEX — the world’s largest and best-rated technology event — will debut in Hanoi from 1–2 October 2026. Coinciding with Vietnam’s National Innovation Week, the inaugural GITEX Vietnam represents a defining milestone in the nation’s journey toward a projected US$200 billion digital economy by 2030.
The event will be organized by Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and KAOUN International in partnership with the Vietnam National Innovation Center (NIC), and facilitated by the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI). Vietnam is now the seventh country — and Southeast Asia the fourth region — to join the expanding GITEX global network.
The announcement came on Thursday during the ongoing GITEX Asia x Ai Everything Singapore at Marina Bay Sands. It follows the recently signed joint declaration of intent between Vietnam and the UAE to launch talks on establishing a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA) and elevate existing trade and economic ties to new heights.
What Preceded GITEX Vietnam?
GITEX, short for Gulf Information Technology Exhibition, originated in Dubai in 1981 and has since evolved into a global phenomenon. While its flagship show, GITEX GLOBAL, continues to dominate the Middle Eastern tech landscape, recent years have marked a significant inflection point in its trajectory as it expands across continents:
- GITEX Africa in Morocco launched in May 2023, establishing the largest tech and startup event in the African continent.
- GITEX Impact and Future Urbanism have also taken root in Germany, reflecting the growing importance of sustainability tech and smart cities in Europe.
- GITEX Nigeria was announced in 2024 and is currently set to take place in Lagos in 2025, capitalising on West Africa’s surging digital economy.
- GITEX Asia x Ai Everything Singapore, launched in April 2025, is already being hailed as the largest AI-dedicated gathering in the region.
- GITEX DIGI_HEALTH 5.0 Expo-Summit will be held in Thailand from September 10-12, 2025.
Now, GITEX Vietnam marks the seventh country and fourth distinct global region to be incorporated under the GITEX brand umbrella.
Why Vietnam – And Why Now?
Vietnam’s inclusion in the GITEX global circuit is not just a recognition of its growing digital economy — it’s a reflection of momentum that’s already underway. At GITEX Asia x Ai Everything Singapore, Vietnam marked a milestone by hosting its first-ever official national showcase, highlighting its innovation achievements, startup talent, and digital economy ambitions to an international audience.
And it was on the second day of this event — in front of the global tech community — that the announcement was made: Hanoi will host GITEX Vietnam in 2026. This symbolic moment reinforces Vietnam’s readiness not only to participate but to lead in global technology discourse and collaboration.
Tailored to Vietnam’s strengths, GITEXT Vietnam will foster collaboration across:
- Startups and corporates (co-investment and joint R&D)
- Academia and government (bridging research with policy)
- Local and international ecosystems (forging cross-border deals)
So, why Vietnam? Why now?
Vietnam’s credentials are compelling:
- #2 in global smartphone exports
- #5 in global computer exports
- US$18B+ semiconductor sector (2024)
- A manufacturing and construction workforce of over 17 million, accounting for 33.4% of total employment nationwide (GSO)
These milestones are underpinned by Vietnam’s National Strategy on Digital Economy and Digital Society Development, which prioritizes AI infrastructure, cybersecurity, green data centers, and high-speed connectivity — with the goal of becoming a regional IT and network security leader by 2030.
Trixie LohMirmand, EVP of DWTC and CEO of KAOUN International, emphasized during her speech at the announcement:
"The inaugural GITEX Vietnam shall represent a watershed in the digital transition of Vietnam and the rising Southeast Asia emerging economies."
"Vietnam’s momentum is undeniable — with around 4,000 startups, two unicorns, and government targets for the digital economy to contribute 30% of GDP by 2030.
Add to that a commitment to graduate 50,000 IT professionals annually, and it’s clear the country is building a foundation for transformative, long-term growth. GITEX will spotlight and accelerate this progress, while connecting Vietnamese innovation to the global stage."
Why Does It Matter?
The launch of GITEX Vietnam carries tangible benefits for Vietnam, GITEX, and the wider region. It’s more than symbolic, it’s strategic.
For Vietnam, especially Vietnamese tech founders, the event provides:
- Direct access to global investors and tech partners
- A platform to influence international policy discussions on AI, sustainability, and digital infrastructure
- A catalyst for innovation-related legislation and cross-sector collaboration
As part of Vietnam Innovation Week, GITEX Vietnam will feature announcements on new regulations and public-private partnerships aimed at accelerating the country’s digital transformation and IT leadership ambitions.
Kim Ngoc Thanh Nga, Deputy Director of the Vietnam National Innovation Center, emphasized the strategic significance:
“The announcement of GITEX coming to Vietnam marks a transformative milestone for our country’s technology, innovation, and digital investment ecosystems — and a defining moment for Southeast Asia.
With its legacy of bridging digital divides and shaping global tech narratives, GITEX’s expansion into Vietnam will undoubtedly serve as a powerful catalyst for socio-economic advancement at local, regional, and international levels. We are embracing an extraordinary opportunity to build a future anchored in innovation, collaboration, and global connectivity.”
Beyond its national significance, GITEX Vietnam is poised to serve as a gateway for ASEAN to strengthen digital and trade ties with the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. It reflects Vietnam’s strategic foreign policy to diversify partnerships and expand its global footprint in technology and innovation.
“This partnership bridges global and local innovation ecosystems. It is essential not only for emerging markets like Vietnam but also for enhancing bilateral relations between the UAE and Vietnam.” – As Jalil Rasheed, TBI Managing Director, Asia Pacific, commented during the official announcement of GITEX Vietnam.
In essence, GITEX Vietnam encapsulates Vietnam’s readiness to lead and GITEX’s commitment to globalizing innovation — on new terms, and with new voices.