Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, the city will host the 50th edition of the International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC) World Finals from November 15 to 20, 2026.
The announcement was made by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers. The ICPC is recognized as the world’s most prestigious university-level programming competition. The 2026 finals are expected to attract more than 130 elite university teams, selected from over 63,000 students representing around 3,500 universities across 93 countries.
A Milestone in Dubai’s Digital Vision
His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications and Chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, emphasized that hosting the ICPC World Finals aligns with the UAE’s and Dubai’s forward-looking strategies. He highlighted the importance of building a future-proof digital ecosystem that invests in high-caliber human capital and empowers a new generation of digital leaders.
He stated, “Dubai’s hosting of the 50th ICPC finals underscores its status as a global technology hub and a magnet for digital talent. This is a strategic investment in the knowledge economy that will accelerate knowledge transfer and support the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.”
A Global Platform for Innovation and Talent
Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice President of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, added that the partnership with ICPC reinforces the Chamber’s mission to cultivate digital skills and bridge academic and professional communities. “This event connects the brightest student programmers with leading global tech partners, providing a platform for learning, innovation, and future career pathways.”
Celebrating the ICPC Legacy
Dr. William Poucher, President and CEO of the ICPC Foundation, expressed his gratitude to Dubai for hosting this milestone event. “The 50th edition of the ICPC World Finals is not only a celebration of the contest’s history but a look ahead to its future. The competition brings together exceptional talent and alumni who are shaping the next wave of global digital transformation.”
He highlighted the pivotal role of ICPC alumni in developing innovative systems and solutions with real-world impact, and thanked Dubai for its strategic support in spotlighting the importance of investing in talent capable of building sustainable and prosperous digital ecosystems.
A Competitive and Inspiring Event
Backed by major tech sponsors including Huawei, JetBrains, Google, OpenAI, Jane Street, Jump Trading, Citadel, Revolut, and others, the ICPC features a rigorous structure of regional contests that culminate in the World Finals. The 2026 edition will see Dubai welcome elite teams who excelled in these regional rounds.
Over five days, students will engage in various challenges and activities, leading up to a five-hour final contest where teams of three will tackle complex algorithmic problems under high-pressure conditions. The competition not only tests technical ability but also teamwork, innovation, and the ability to perform under stress.
Strengthening Dubai’s Global Position
With students from 93 countries participating, including top talent from UAE universities, the event promises to be a landmark for Dubai’s growing tech ecosystem. Hosting the ICPC will enhance collaboration between academic institutions and the global tech industry, promoting sustainable partnerships and innovation.
The ICPC, established in 1970, is widely regarded as a key global talent pipeline for the tech sector, with over half a million alumni worldwide. Many of its finalists go on to hold influential roles in top tech companies and research institutions.
By welcoming the world’s brightest programming minds, Dubai reinforces its position as a leading city for innovation, talent, and global collaboration—core pillars of the D33 agenda that aims to place Dubai among the world’s top three economic cities.
