Dubai Expo 2026: AI Glasses, Bionic Limbs and Assistive Tech on Show at AccessAbilities

During his tour of the exhibition, Sheikh Ahmed visited the stands of participating government entities as well as international and local exhibitors. Experts and company representatives briefed him on the latest advances in assistive technologies and rehabilitation programmes, explaining how these innovations are empowering People of Determination and improving the quality of life for more than 1.3 billion people globally, including 50 million in the Middle East.

Sheikh Ahmed’s Vision for Inclusion

Sheikh Ahmed said: “The remarkable success of the AccessAbilities Expo in empowering People of Determination and enabling them to contribute actively to the advancement of society makes us immensely proud. I am delighted to welcome exhibitors and participants from around the world to an event that showcases the latest advances in accessibility, assistive technologies, rehabilitation and inclusion. By bringing together government entities, innovators, healthcare providers, educational institutions, international organisations, and the private sector, the event provides valuable opportunities to exchange knowledge, showcase innovative solutions and build partnerships that improve the quality of life and enhance independence for People of Determination.”

He added: “As Dubai continues to strengthen its position as one of the world’s leading cities in accessibility and inclusive development, initiatives such as AccessAbilities Expo play a pivotal role in supporting the UAE’s vision of empowering People of Determination and ensuring they have access to every opportunity to participate fully and actively in society.”

Sheikh Ahmed emphasised that exhibitors and participants from around the world who have gathered at AAE-2026 have a key role in advancing accessibility and innovation, and in building more inclusive communities regionally and globally.

Exhibition Highlights and Campaigns

This year’s edition brings together nearly 250 exhibitors, brands and rehabilitation centres from approximately 50 countries. Many of the advanced products and technological solutions on display are being introduced in the Middle East for the first time. These include AI-powered smart glasses that provide real-time translation and visual assistance for people with visual impairments, advanced bionic prosthetics that replicate natural movement to give users greater independence, and smartphone applications that connect People of Determination with specially adapted transport services.

During its three-day run, the exhibition will launch one of the largest awareness campaigns of its kind, reaching millions of people worldwide. The campaign will address autism spectrum disorder (ASD), inclusive education, rehabilitation programmes and applications, home care, the impact of arts, healthy nutrition and other areas that directly affect the lives of People of Determination and their families.

The event also offers free medical screenings and substantial discounts from exhibitors for visitors wishing to purchase products that meet their needs.

Memoranda of understanding, cooperation agreements, partnerships and distribution agreements will be signed between international and local manufacturers and organisations. These initiatives are expected to further strengthen the UAE’s and Dubai’s reputation as global hubs for assistive technologies and rehabilitation programmes, supporting their ambition to become world leaders in the care and empowerment of People of Determination.

Global Context and Market Data

People of Determination account for approximately 10 to 16 percent of the population in any society, with an estimated 1.3 billion people worldwide, according to World Health Organisation statistics. Global studies indicate that 3.5 billion people will need assistive technologies by 2030. In the Middle East alone, more than 50 million People of Determination are seeking practical solutions and innovative technologies that can help them develop their skills and strengthen their independence.

According to the World Health Organisation, only one in ten people worldwide currently have access to the assistive technology they need, primarily due to high costs or a shortage of qualified professionals. The global assistive devices market is projected to reach approximately $47.1 billion by 2031.

The 8th edition of AccessAbilities Expo is expected to attract 18,000 visitors from 70 countries. The exhibition showcases assistive technologies addressing a wide range of disabilities, including physical, visual, hearing and intellectual disabilities, as well as autism spectrum disorder.