Blockchain Life 2026 is coming back to Dubai on December 1–2, with more than 15,000 people expected from over 130 countries.

The event will bring together crypto companies, investors, exchanges and blockchain projects from around the world. More than 200 speakers and 200 sponsors are expected to take part.

But the interesting part for me is the new AI Future Forum.

The organizers are adding a dedicated section for AI and robotics and how they can work together with crypto and Web3.

I think this is another sign of how crypto and AI are starting to move closer together.

Dubai is also trying to position itself as one of the major hubs for crypto, fintech and new technology.

Additionally, Dubai has to attract more international money and visitors after the Iran-US war badly affected tourism and also damaged the image of Dubai as a safe haven that was heavily promoted by media and influencers.

For example, Dubai's hotel occupancy reportedly fell from around 83% before the war to 20–25% during the conflict, although it has since recovered to around 60%.