Almaty gears up for GITEX AI Kazakhstan 2026 to boost tech innovation

Almaty Hosts Briefing on AI and Digital Development Ahead of Landmark GITEX AI Kazakhstan 2026 Forum

On the eve of one of Kazakhstan's most significant events of the Year of Digitalization—the international technology forum and exhibition GITEX AI Kazakhstan 2026—a briefing was held in Almaty, dedicated to artificial intelligence and digital transformation.

The first large-scale events of this kind in Central Asia and the Caucasus will open new opportunities for the republic, fostering strategic partnerships and attracting investment. GITEX AI Kazakhstan 2026 is a global ecosystem of technology exhibitions, bringing together industry leaders, startups, investors, and government agencies.

During the forum and exhibition on May 4–5, Almaty will serve as the gateway to Central Asia for this new brand, offering Kazakhstan a unique platform to showcase its economic and technological achievements, engage new partners, and attract investors to key projects.

Experts forecast that revenue from Kazakh digital products and technologies could reach $1 billion—a significant leap from the current hundreds of millions. The optimism among domestic digital industry companies is well-founded, backed by strong growth trends in their operations.

At the briefing, Bakhtiyar Mukhambetkaliyev, Kazakhstan's Vice Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development, emphasized that hosting such a high-profile event would create conditions for the republic to build an economy driven by cutting-edge innovations. Olzhas Smagulov, Deputy Mayor of Almaty, shared insights on the city's IT development prospects.

"Almaty must become a hub for advanced tech companies, young talent, and startups. We have a concrete action plan to achieve this. First and foremost, we need to develop the right infrastructure and build an ecosystem for IT firms. Right now, we're working to launch anAI Parkin Almaty, spanning10,000 square meters—a space entirely dedicated to IT businesses," Smagulov said.

GITEX AI Kazakhstan 2026 in Almaty is expected to draw over 10,000 attendees, including IT professionals from 60 countries and representatives of more than 150 startups.