Canada is poised to strengthen its international presence in artificial intelligence (AI) at the upcoming 2026 World Governments Summit (WGS) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). This initiative underscores the growing collaboration between Canada and the UAE in sectors such as AI, public-sector innovation, and digital infrastructure. With a commitment to translating agreements into actionable business opportunities, the Canadian delegation, led by SCALE AI, aims to showcase homegrown expertise and forge valuable partnerships.

Canada’s Delegation to the 2026 World Governments Summit

From February 3 to 5, 2026, Canada will lead a diverse AI delegation to the WGS, reflecting a wealth of experience from across the Canadian innovation ecosystem. Selected from over 200 applicants, these AI providers will demonstrate a range of cutting-edge solutions tailored for public-sector applications. The mission is particularly notable as it follows a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed in October 2025 by the Honourable Evan Solomon, Canada’s Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation. This MOU aims to explore tangible business leads and opportunities for collaboration between the Canadian and Emirati markets.

Highlights of the delegation include a new partnership between Ontario’s MetaWorldX and Tadoom, a leader in IoT and smart city initiatives in Oman. This collaboration aims to develop digital twin technologies for smart cities and communities throughout the Middle East. The participating Canadian firms will share proven solutions designed to enhance government decision-making, optimize urban infrastructure, and improve access to essential health and social services.

Fostering Canada-UAE Relations in AI and Digital Transformation

The mission reinforces Canada’s strategic position at the WGS, one of the most significant global platforms for discussing governance and innovation. Canada and the UAE have been deepening their ties, especially since the UAE was honored as the “Country of the Year” at the ALL IN 2025 event, Canada’s largest AI conference. Following this, Canadian and Emirati leaders formalized their commitment to enhancing investments in digital infrastructure and AI adoption through new agreements.

The Prime Minister’s visit to the UAE has also contributed significantly to this blossoming relationship, facilitating new trade agreements and encouraging foreign investments. In January, Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu traveled to the Gulf region to further advance discussions on this burgeoning economic partnership, signaling a promising future for collaboration across various sectors.

The Significance of the 2026 World Governments Summit

The 2026 World Governments Summit is set to be the largest gathering of its kind, with over 35 heads of state and more than 6,000 participants from both public and private sectors. This annual event creates an invaluable space for global leaders to discuss emerging trends in technology, governance, and economic development. Canada’s participation, especially in the AI sector, will serve to highlight the innovative solutions its companies are capable of delivering, both domestically and internationally.

This mission is particularly crucial in positioning Canada as a trusted international partner in the evolving landscape of responsible AI. Various leaders, including SCALE AI’s Hélène Desmarais and Julien Billot, emphasize that the outcomes of this mission are directed toward advancing Canada’s economic goals while reinforcing its commitment to ethical AI practices.

In summary, Canada’s leading role in the 2026 World Governments Summit highlights the strength of its innovation ecosystem and the increasing global demand for its AI capabilities. Armed with a diverse range of cutting-edge solutions and a clear agenda for collaboration, Canada aims to translate agreements into actionable results while elevating its status as a leader in digital transformation.