Fourth edition of regional data centre conference moves to the UAE
Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi will host Touchdown Middle East 2026 in Abu Dhabi, marking the first time the region-wide data centre conference will take place in the UAE.
Organised by the Gulf Data Centre Association (GDCA), the fourth edition of Touchdown Middle East 2026 will take place on 18–19 November 2026 at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers.
Following three consecutive years in Bahrain, the conference’s move to Abu Dhabi reflects its growing regional footprint and positions the UAE’s capital as its first new host venue.
The conference will attract data centre operators, investors, technology providers, government stakeholders, real estate leaders, energy specialists and digital infrastructure decision-makers from across the Middle East and international markets.
The event is expected to attract more than 1,500 visitors, over 400 companies, 70 speakers and participants from more than 30 countries.
“KEZAD Group, we see this conference as a practical platform to connect investors, operators and infrastructure partners with Abu Dhabi’s industrial base, logistics strength and long-term growth environment,” commented Abdullah Al Hameli, CEO, Economic Cities & Free Zones Cluster, AD Ports Group.
“We are delighted to have KEZAD Group as our main sponsor and we look forward to welcoming leaders from across the data centre value chain to discuss the next phase of digital infrastructure growth in the Middle East,” added Henry Sutton, Director, Gulf Data Centre Association and Touchdown Middle East.
