The region’s largest e-commerce gathering, WORLDEF DUBAI 2026, officially opened its doors on February 12 and continues through February 14, transforming Dubai into a global hub for digital trade.
Hosted at Dubai CommerCity, the event brings together more than 16,000 participants from over 80 countries, reinforcing its position as MENA’s leading platform for cross-border commerce, AI-driven retail innovation, and global e-commerce collaboration.
“Trade Is Now Digital”
Speaking at the opening ceremony on the main stage titled Future Commerce, WORLDEF CEO Omar Nart described the event as more than just a conference:
“WORLDEF DUBAI is not only an event; it is a meeting of ideas, people, and futures. Digital trade is changing the world. It is no longer the future, it is the present. Trade is now digital, growth is now cross-border, and success requires cooperation.”
Nart emphasized that the forum aligns closely with Dubai’s long-term economic strategy under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position the emirate as a global leader in digital trade and economic innovation.
Startup Zone & Growth Network Launch
For the first time, WORLDEF introduced a dedicated Startup Zone, hosting more than 50 startups presenting globally scalable solutions in digital commerce, logistics, AI, and fintech.
“These startups are global by design,” Nart noted, highlighting the event’s focus on innovation and new market creation.
The event also saw the launch of the WORLDEF Growth Network (WGN), a long-term ecosystem platform designed to connect founders, investors, corporates, and institutions beyond the event itself.
Looking ahead, Nart confirmed that WORLDEF DUBAI 2027 is already in planning, promising a larger and more global edition next year.
High-Level Attendance & Regional Support
WORLDEF DUBAI 2026 welcomed prominent dignitaries, including:
- Lutfullah Goktas, Türkiye’s Ambassador to Abu Dhabi, who toured the exhibition area and met participating companies.
- Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee and Chairman of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council.
His Highness attended key sessions on digital trade policy, AI, cross-border commerce, and logistics innovation, underscoring the UAE’s strategic commitment to digital economy leadership.
AED 100,000 Startup Grant Awarded
One of the highlights of the event was the startup pitch competition, where innovators presented breakthrough solutions. A winning startup secured a AED 100,000 grant to accelerate its vision into execution.
As the final day unfolds, WORLDEF DUBAI 2026 continues to serve as a powerful convergence point for policymakers, founders, investors, and global brands shaping the future of commerce.
Dubai is not just hosting the future of trade — it is actively building it.
