The VR Business Club at GITEX GLOBAL 2025 – A glimpse into the future
Our delegation trip to Dubai for GITEX GLOBAL 2025, the world’s largest tech and startup fair, was an experience full of impressions, innovations, and encounters that will remain in our memories for a long time to come.
As soon as we entered the exhibition halls, it became clear that we were entering a world where the future is not just imagined, but already being lived. Particularly impressive were the AI-controlled humanoid robots that responded to their conversation partners with emotional expressions. These interactions were fascinating and unsettling at the same time, because they felt astonishingly real. It was a preview of how closely humans and machines will work together in the future and what questions this raises for our interpersonal communication.
There was no shortage of humor either. During an aura analysis by an AI, I was attributed with particularly high blockchain skills, even though my expertise actually lies in completely different areas. A charming example of how even artificial intelligence sometimes interprets things creatively.
Another highlight was the air taxis, which are set to take to the skies above Dubai in the near future. Several manufacturers are already testing their models here before they are allowed to launch in the US. The reason for this is the significantly faster approval processes in the United Arab Emirates, which bring innovations into practice at an early stage.
In addition to mobility and AI, we were also excited by developments in quantum computing, AR contact lenses, AR games for children, robotics, and digital art in the form of holograms. Technological progress was not only palpable, but also creatively tangible.
Our team visited around twenty exhibitors, had inspiring conversations with pioneers of the next generation of technology from Dubai, China, Korea, the USA, and Eastern Europe, and gained valuable insights into a world where technological visions meet courage and implementation strength. A big compliment goes to the organizers of GITEX GLOBAL 2025, especially Fahad Khalife, Justin Gutierrez, and Jutta Jakobi, who put together an impressive event.
On the second day, at Expand North Star, it became clear once again how rapidly technologies are advancing and what impact they have on our daily lives and work.
Technology and innovation
In Dubai, it was clear that many forward-looking technologies originate in the US and China, but are being implemented particularly quickly here. This is made possible by clear decision-making structures, an open innovation policy, and an excellently developed infrastructure. Dubai sees itself as a smart city and is investing specifically in artificial intelligence, mobility, blockchain, and sustainability.
The fascination of the metro
The metro ride was an exciting contrast to the high-tech trade fair. During rush hour, hundreds of people wait on the platforms, but everything runs smoothly, efficiently, and surprisingly quietly. The metro is considered one of the most modern fully automated underground rail systems in the world and transports over 600,000 passengers every day. I was particularly impressed by how respectfully people treated each other. Women were naturally offered seats.
Culture and People
The people of Dubai are incredibly friendly and polite. At the same time, the social differences are hard to overlook. While the glittering skyline symbolizes wealth and luxury, many migrant workers from South and Southeast Asia live in very simple accommodations outside the city. This contrast shapes the social landscape and impressively demonstrates how different living environments can be in a globalized metropolis.
Architecture and atmosphere
Dubai radiates enormous energy. Everything appears clean, safe, and perfectly organized. What is sometimes lacking is the authentic character that one senses in old European cities. Nevertheless, Dubai is an absolute highlight for architecture enthusiasts. The buildings are gigantic, the lighting spectacular, and the architectural details impress with their precision and aesthetics.
Conclusion
Dubai is a place of extremes. A melting pot of vision, prosperity, opportunity, and contrasts. The city impressively demonstrates how globalization and technological development can transform societies. For us, the trip was an intense experience full of inspiration, insights, and exciting encounters.
If you want to understand where technology, innovation, and urban life are headed in the coming years, you should definitely experience Dubai with your own eyes.
