(MENAFN- Mid-East Info) As the curtains fall on GITEX Global 2025, the world's largest tech and startup show held in Dubai from 13-17 October, global attention now shifts to Wales Tech Week 2025, powered by Technology Connected. Taking place from 24-26 November at the International Convention Centre (ICC) Wales in Newport, UK, the event promises to continue the momentum of global innovation with a distinctly people-focused and purpose-driven agenda.

All eyes are on this year's keynote speaker Matthew Griffin, a globally renowned futurist and strategist, who has worked extensively across the UAE with government bodies, the Royal Family and leading organisations such as DP World, Majid Al Futtaim, the Dubai Futures Foundation and Area 2071.

Griffin's insights have helped shape national strategies and innovation ecosystems in one of the world's most ambitious tech landscapes.“The UAE has developed one of the most ambitious and fast-paced technology landscapes in the world and has shown how even small countries can punch far above their weight to compete with, and in many cases out compete, global giants. From nationwide 3D printing and renewable energy initiatives to the rapid development of sovereign AI, AI Government, first of a kind Metaverse regulations, and Martian space ambitions the scale and speed of experimentation here is truly unmatched,” says Griffin.

“Their commitment to national AI strategies and digital government transformation is bold and visionary. Meanwhile, Wales and the UK have strong innovation ecosystems though often face more regulatory and legacy constraints. However, the

UK excels in ethical AI and inclusive tech development, which complements the UAE's rapid deployment mindset,” Griffin continues.

As a futurist working at the intersection of emerging technologies, global policy and societal change, Griffin's perspective offers valuable foresight into the forces reshaping the world. Often referred to as 'The Fanatical Futurist', he embraces the title with purpose.“It was a nickname given to me by the people at the United Nations and it's kind of stuck,” he explains.“While we can't change the past, looking ahead we can shape the future. And therefore, I'm fanatical about it because the potential to do good is infinite but so too are the challenges.”

Griffin's keynote at Wales Tech Week 2025 will offer a deeper dive into how emerging technologies particularly AI, autonomous systems and digital infrastructure can be harnessed to create inclusive, sustainable and impactful futures.

Reflecting on his work with UAE innovation platforms, Griffin adds:“Dubai Futures Foundation and Area 2071 are masterclasses in ecosystem design. They don't just incubate startups, they orchestrate collaboration between government, academia, and industry with a shared vision for the future. These platforms taught me that innovation thrives when bureaucracy is minimised and ambition is maximised. Wales can draw inspiration from this by creating more agile, cross-sector innovation spaces that are future-focused and globally connected.”

He continues,“The UAE's approach is unapologetically bold. They set moonshot goals and back them with policy, funding and infrastructure. Wales can adopt a similar mindset by aligning its tech ambitions with national priorities like sustainability, health and education, and by empowering startups and SMEs to co-create solutions with government and enterprise. Collaboration must be intentional, not incidental.”

As for why UAE organisations should attend Wales Tech Week, Griffin is clear:“Wales Tech Week is where international opportunity meets Welsh ingenuity.

For UAE organisations, it's a chance to connect with a vibrant, values-driven tech community that's solving real-world problems, alongside key policymakers and decision makers. I'd say: come to Wales not just to showcase innovation but to co-create it. The future is collaborative, and Wales is ready to lead with purpose.”

“Expect the unexpected,” Griffin teases.“It'll be a journey into the near and far future, challenging assumptions and inspiring action.”

With themes of Tech for People, Tech for the Planet, and Tech for Performance, Wales Tech Week 2025 promises to be a landmark event, one that not only explores what's next but what's possible.

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