GITEX (Gulf Information Technology Exhibition) Technology Week is one of the most recognized and annually held ICT trade events in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. It is an annual consumer computer and electronics trade show, exhibition, and conference which takes place in Dubai, UAE at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). The show was launched in 1981 as GITE and later in 1988 changed to GITEX with the inclusion of exhibitions along with trade show and conference. For some years it has now filled the entire DWTC complex with over 10 different exhibition halls during the whole week.

GITEX 2014 ended last month, attracts over 135,000 trade visitors from over 140 countries to explore technology solutions represented by more than 3,500 companies as mentioned on their website. This is a huge number considering the region and that no other technology conference and exhibition is as big or even near as this one. The impact this exhibition is making on the advancements in ICT in this region is also huge. You can feel from the satisfaction among all participants.

GITEX showed a number of new trends this year. One of the most widely visible changes that it had made is the ICT development in the Middle East is not merely happening passively as in the past. Now ICT advancements and developments are strongly connected with optimization. More and more focus is made on the latest and optimized solutions. For example, audiovisual products vary from high-definition slim bezel signage monitors to a range of intelligent, interactive LED displays. Another important change GITEX and similar efforts have made are that the Middle East countries are now focusing more on education and health sectors and maximum budgets are allocated to these two sectors. It clearly shows their inclination for the knowledge economy it is strongly motivated and connected with such exhibitions.

Apart from other highlights of the event, a large range of new smartphone applications for Android and iOS devices were presented in the exhibition including applications related to interactive maps with directions, smart browsing, photo sharing apps, and apps showing UAE historical and recreational spots.