“Bridging Horizons: India and UAE Forge New Tech Alliances at GITEX Global 2024”
Dubai: India makes its largest-ever participation at GITEX Global 2024, held in Dubai from October 14-18. GITEX, one of the world’s leading technology events, sees India represented by over 400 companies across twelve pavilions. These companies showcase advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cybersecurity, Mobility, and Sustainable Tech. Veer Sagar, Chairman of the Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC), expresses pride in India’s growing global tech influence.
The ESC’ India Pavilion was inaugurated by HE Sunjay Sudhir, Ambassador of India in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates and addressed by Satish Kumar Sivan Consul General of India, Dubai, UAE.
India’s Tech Journey
Kamal Vachani, Regional Director of ESC-Dubai, highlights India’s rise in the global technology space, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for turning India into a “Digital Beacon.” India’s IT spending is projected to reach $124.6 billion in 2024, reflecting a 10.7% year-on-year growth. This growth emphasizes India’s focus on AI, cloud computing, and operational excellence, driving transformation across industries.
India also contributes significantly to the global tech ecosystem through its 1,700 Global Capability Centers (GCCs), which generate $64.6 billion in export revenue and employ 1.9 million people. These centers are vital hubs for technological innovation, supporting multinational corporations worldwide.
Taiwan Excellence Unveils Innovative Products at GITEX Global 2024
India-UAE Economic Ties
India and the UAE share a strong trading relationship that has thrived since the 1990s. From an annual trade value of just $180 million in the 1970s, the two nations now conduct business worth over $84.84 billion each year. The UAE is India’s third-largest trading partner, and their collaboration continues to strengthen. The UAE has also been a significant investor in India, with $16.67 billion in foreign direct investment across sectors such as technology, energy, and infrastructure.
Deep Tech and Future Collaborations
At GITEX 2024, India is not only showcasing its products but also its leadership in Deep Tech. According to Veer Sagar, focusing on technologies like AI, blockchain, and cybersecurity helps address complex issues like climate change and healthcare. India already has over 3,600 Deep Tech startups, with more emerging in 2024.
In 2018, India and the UAE signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to establish a bilateral AI bridge, aiming to generate $20 billion in economic benefits over the next decade. Both countries collaborate in areas such as Smart Grid deployment, renewable energy, and space technologies, further solidifying their tech partnerships.
Looking Forward: INDIASOFT and INDIA ELECTRONICS EXPO 2025
India’s tech journey continues beyond GITEX. The ESC is already planning for INDIASOFT and INDIA ELECTRONICS EXPO 2025, scheduled for March 19-21, 2025, in New Delhi. These events will showcase India’s best technological innovations and electronic products, offering a platform for global collaboration and investment.
Gurmeet Singh, Executive Director of ESC, emphasized the organization’s critical role in advancing India’s electronics and IT sector, stating, “ESC India serves as a bridge between Indian innovation and the global market. At GITEX 2024, we’re not just participants; we’re making history,” he added.
India’s record-breaking participation at GITEX Global 2024 highlights its growing importance in the global tech landscape. With a focus on AI, cybersecurity, and Deep Tech, India is positioning itself as a leader in technological innovation. Supported by strong international partnerships, especially with the UAE, India continues to drive digital transformation, paving the way for a tech-driven future.
