Under the bright lights of the Parc des Expositions, the UAE pavilion stood out amid tech giants, delivering a bold message: “We don’t wait for tomorrow, we build it.” A diverse lineup of Emirati startups drew attention—from robotics and cybersecurity to artificial intelligence and smart glasses—offering European investors and entrepreneurs a vibrant glimpse into the UAE’s fast-evolving innovation ecosystem.
In one corner of the pavilion, visitors gathered around what looked like a conventional motorcycle—only to learn it had been transformed into a self-driving bike. Developed by Dubai-based RoboHitech, founded and led by entrepreneur Mohammed Al Shamsi, this creation captivated media and curious onlookers alike.
Al Shamsi emphasized that this prototype is more than a tech showcase—it’s a practical solution for crucial sectors such as security, urban mobility, and logistics. He credited the UAE’s supportive environment for making this leap possible. “We’re not innovating just for the market; we’re innovating for the future,” he said, highlighting the importance of leadership that backs science, empowers youth, and embraces risk-taking and experimentation.
He expressed deep gratitude to the UAE’s leadership for sustained financial and technical support—support that fueled RoboHitech’s journey from a small Dubai startup to exhibiting in Paris, with a product that may revolutionize urban transportation. “We’re not imitating the West,” he added. “We develop solutions tailored to our cities and environment. Dubai has proven it’s a global platform exporting tech—not importing it. Our real honor is raising the UAE flag internationally and proving we can not only compete but lead.”
Meanwhile, Viai showcased its AI-assisted smart sports glasses, engineered for professional athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. CEO Abdullah Abu Obaid described them as more than just visual wearables—they are full-fledged digital companions. Powered by applied AI, they analyze terrain, monitor health and performance metrics, navigate routes, and issue real-time alerts. “Designed in the UAE,” he said, “these glasses blend sophisticated tech with simplicity and user-friendliness.”
Another highlight: CyberNet, a specialized cybersecurity academy headed by Mohammed Khalid Al Shamsi, underlined the UAE’s commitment to cultivating a digitally literate generation. He stressed that their mission goes beyond conventional education—they are training professionals capable of protecting the nation’s digital infrastructure and securing its economic future, increasingly reliant on smart systems.
In sum, the UAE’s participation at VivaTech 2025 was a vibrant showcase of homegrown innovation—from autonomous vehicles to AI smartwear and cyber defense training. More than exhibiting technology, the UAE demonstrated its ambition: a future shaped by vision, backed by leadership, powered by youth—and already under construction.
