The Quantum Innovation Summit is set to take place from September 28 to 30, 2026, at the Grand Hyatt Dubai Conference & Exhibition Centre. This prominent event will unite technology leaders and researchers from around the globe. Organized by Vernewell Group and hosted by the UAE Cyber Security Council, this summit aims to broaden its focus beyond quantum technologies to include pivotal areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and critical infrastructure.

Broadening Horizons: The Summit’s Expanded Focus

The 2026 Quantum Innovation Summit reflects an important evolution, expanding its scope to embrace a wider array of stakeholders in the realms of advanced systems. More than 3,000 square meters have been allocated for exhibitions and interactive engagements, highlighting the escalating interest in interconnected technologies. The organizers emphasize a comprehensive approach to technological leadership, aiming to tie quantum computing and artificial intelligence to essential sectors like cybersecurity and critical infrastructure.

This holistic perspective also takes into account crucial aspects such as research, governance, investment, and the establishment of sovereign capabilities. By prioritizing technological sovereignty and national resilience, the summit aims to enhance economic competitiveness and reinforce trusted international partnerships. Its agenda is designed to ensure that these advanced technologies are developed, secured, and implemented in a coordinated manner that addresses the needs of all stakeholders involved.

Artificial Intelligence Takes Center Stage

The upcoming edition of the summit will place a heightened emphasis on artificial intelligence, facilitated by new collaborations within the UAE’s cutting-edge AI and technology landscape. These partnerships will bring together expertise from various fields, including government applications, cybersecurity, autonomous systems, and critical infrastructure. This strategic focus demonstrates a commitment to integrating AI into the very framework of future technological advancements.

Key sponsors at the summit include the Technology Innovation Institute (TII), which will act as Quantum Catalyst Sponsor and Prime Exhibitor. TII aims to connect the international program with practical quantum research and engineering initiatives based in Abu Dhabi. QuantumGate, another Quantum Catalyst Sponsor, will share local insights regarding post-quantum security, which has become increasingly crucial due to the potential of quantum computing to disrupt existing encryption protocols. Additionally, e& UAE, as a Strategic Partner, will offer perspectives on national connectivity and digital infrastructure development.

International Collaboration and Engagement

The international representation at the summit has seen substantial growth, climbing from 31 countries in 2024 to 52 in 2025, along with over 20 diplomatic delegations. This expansion highlights the summit’s emerging status as a vital global platform for quantum technologies and other burgeoning fields.

The event’s program goes beyond the main conference, incorporating initiatives such as the Quantum Futures Forum, Academic Aisle, Vernewell Quantum Fall School, and the MVA GEGSLA Symposium—all aimed at promoting research exchange, education, and capability development. The summit will also kick off Global Quantum Week, enhancing engagement through various online and international activities. Notable amongst these is TII Quantum Day in Abu Dhabi on October 1, which features curated visits to critical research facilities, such as the Quantum Research Lab and Quantum Optical Ground Station.

In summation, the 2026 Quantum Innovation Summit is set to inspire innovation and collaboration in quantum technologies and related fields, positioning itself as a leader in the ongoing evolution of advanced technology systems.