Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived in New Delhi on February 18, 2026, to attend the India AI Impact Summit 2026. He is representing UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at this major global event. The summit aims to bring together leaders and experts to discuss the future of Artificial Intelligence and its impact.
What is the India AI Impact Summit 2026 All About?
The India AI Impact Summit 2026 is taking place from February 16 to 20, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. Its main theme is “People, Planet, and Progress,” also known as The Three Sutras. The UAE delegation, led by Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled, is focused on setting up the UAE-India Web3 & AI Business Corridor, which aims to boost talent and startup growth between the two nations.
Who are the Key Attendees and How Can You Participate?
Many important figures are attending the summit, including global CEOs like Sam Altman from OpenAI, Sundar Pichai from Google, Bill Gates, and Brad Smith from Microsoft. In total, over 40 global CEOs are present. UN Secretary-General António Guterres also arrived, highlighting the summit’s importance as the first major global AI gathering in the Global South. For those interested, delegate and public registration is free through the official portal (impact.indiaai.gov.in). Registered attendees need a valid government ID and their email QR code for entry. The AI Impact Expo is open to all registered visitors from February 17–20. However, access on February 19 for the main inaugural ceremony, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is by-invite only. Due to heavy VIP traffic, attendees are advised to use the Delhi Metro, getting off at Gate 10, Pragati Maidan.
How Does This Summit Impact Delhi and Beyond?
The summit has led to significant changes in Delhi. Luxury hotels in Delhi-NCR have seen their prices jump five times because of the arrival of over 35,000 international delegates and experts. Delhi Police have also issued advisories to manage traffic and ensure students taking CBSE board exams face minimal problems despite the heavy VIP movements. The summit also includes programs like “Yuva AI for All,” a free initiative designed to spread AI awareness among students and professionals. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India and the UAE are “trusted partners” working towards a “shared future” in AI, showing the diplomatic importance of this gathering.
