More than 1,400 construction, real estate and data infrastructure leaders gathered in Dubai for the ninth edition of Construction Technology ConFex (CTF) 2026, as artificial intelligence, automation and the rapid expansion of digital infrastructure emerge as key forces reshaping the GCC’s built environment.

The event brought together developers, contractors, government authorities, AEC consultants and technology innovators from across the region. Held alongside Property Technology ConFex (PTF) and Data Centre Technology ConFex (DCTC), the 2026 edition featured more than 200 speakers, 50 sponsors and exhibitors, 15 live demonstrations and 10 fast pitches, connecting construction, real estate and data infrastructure as these sectors become increasingly intertwined through technolog, said the event organisers.

Across all three events, discussions focused on how technology can accelerate project timelines, reduce cost overruns and improve outcomes across giga projects, smart-city programmes and next-generation digital infrastructure.

Live demonstrations and case studies showcased robotics, automation, digital twins, modular systems and AI-driven tools transforming workflows from planning and construction through to handover and operations, they stated.

Katie Briggs, Partner at B2B Connect, said: “The GCC is undergoing a built‑environment transformation powered by advanced construction technologies that are accelerating digital delivery. CTF sits at the centre of that momentum, as organisations deliver smarter, safer and more sustainable buildings and infrastructure. This year’s edition brought together the people and technologies redefining how the region designs, builds and operates its assets.”

Commenting on the industry’s digital transformation, Mahmoud Radwan, General Manager for MENA at Premier Construction Software, said, “Across the MENA region, construction companies are moving beyond isolated digital tools towards connected platforms that provide greater visibility across the entire project lifecycle. AI and automation can help teams identify risks earlier, strengthen cost control and make data-led decisions. CTF 2026 provides an important forum for the industry to exchange practical insights and explore how technology can deliver measurable improvements on increasingly complex projects.”

Jennifer Petrie, Enterprise Account Executive at Procore, commented, “CTF UAE is shaping the future of construction conversations in the region. With AI and technology evolving at an incredible pace, there’s a real opportunity to rethink how our industry works, from connecting teams and data to making faster, smarter decisions. CTF gives us a great platform to have those conversations with our customers and industry peers, and to showcase how Procore is helping turn that potential into real impact.”