UAE Aviation Giant Emirates Group Unveils Future of Travel and Hospitality with AI, Robotics at ForsaTEK 2026

The Emirates Group has showcased how artificial intelligence, robotics and digital innovation are reshaping aviation operations and passenger experiences at ForsaTEK 2026. The annual innovation event highlighted the growing role of AI-powered aviation solutions in building the future of air travel.

More than 60 technology projects and solutions were presented, demonstrating how ideas can move from research stages into practical applications. The event brought together aviation leaders, technology experts and business professionals to explore new possibilities in smart operations, hospitality and workforce transformation. ForsaTEK 2026 reflected the Emirates Group’s commitment to innovation-driven aviation technology advancements.

Emirates Group highlights the next phase of aviation innovation at ForsaTEK 2026

The fourth edition of ForsaTEK 2026 was organised by the Emirates Group as a platform for exploring emerging technologies and their impact on aviation. Held on 21 and 22 September, the showcase featured over 90 sessions and experiences focused on artificial intelligence, robotics and human-AI collaboration.

The event demonstrated how advanced technologies are being evaluated and developed to support aviation operations. Discussions focused on how intelligent systems can improve business processes, enhance customer services and support the future of air travel.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, highlighted that ForsaTEK had evolved into a testing environment where innovative ideas could be developed into practical solutions.

The event also welcomed H.E. Omar Sultan Al Olama, UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, who participated in discussions about the role of artificial intelligence in driving technological progress.

How are AI-powered aviation solutions transforming the future of air travel?

Artificial intelligence remained one of the key themes throughout ForsaTEK 2026. The event examined how AI technologies could support organisations in improving efficiency, decision-making and innovation.

During leadership discussions, experts explored how artificial intelligence could deliver practical benefits when combined with human expertise. The importance of testing new concepts and creating responsible approaches towards AI adoption was also highlighted.

The programme included discussions involving leaders from aviation, tourism and technology sectors. Topics covered Dubai’s innovation ecosystem, the use of technology in tourism growth and the development of future-ready business models.

A live human-AI panel further demonstrated collaboration between people and intelligent systems. The session featured industry experts alongside a voice-enabled AI agent, Maryam 3.0, which contributed perspectives using multiple large language models.

These demonstrations reflected how AI-powered aviation solutions are becoming an important part of aviation technology advancements, supporting operational improvements and new customer experiences.

What role does smart hospitality technology play in aviation transformation?

Beyond artificial intelligence discussions, ForsaTEK 2026 highlighted the importance of smart hospitality technology in enhancing aviation services.

Emirates Service Delivery presented digital solutions designed to support cabin crew operations and improve service consistency. These included virtual reality training tools for cabin familiarisation, safety procedures and emergency response preparation.

The One Device ecosystem was also showcased as a digital support platform providing crew members with relevant information throughout their working day. Integrated systems connecting training, catering, briefing and crew management processes demonstrated how technology can improve operational coordination.

These developments show how aviation is moving beyond aircraft operations and expanding into connected hospitality experiences. Smart hospitality technology is increasingly becoming part of the wider strategy to improve passenger journeys and service delivery.

How are partnerships accelerating aviation technology advancements?

Strategic partnerships formed another important part of ForsaTEK 2026. The Emirates Group launched the Academic Research Collective (ARC), a platform connecting the organisation with research-focused universities worldwide.

Through ARC, academic institutions and Emirates Group teams will collaborate on applied research, innovation projects and Minimum Viable Products. The initiative aims to strengthen knowledge exchange, develop talent pipelines and address future business challenges.

The Group also highlighted the next stage of its collaboration with OpenAI. Employees are being provided with secure access to advanced AI models and conversational tools to support productivity and innovation.

The launch zone featured several technology projects, including ARRIVE, an internal framework developed by Emirates Group IT. The system supports agentic software engineering while maintaining governance, human accountability and quality control.

By August 2026, more than 2,000 IT team members had been onboarded through the AI Gateway, supporting the development of Emirates-owned digital products.

dnata Technical Services also displayed its Smart Hub, an automated inventory management solution designed to improve maintenance operations and sustainability performance.

Conclusion

The Emirates Group has demonstrated how AI-powered aviation solutions, robotics and smart hospitality technology are influencing the future of air travel through ForsaTEK 2026. The event showcased practical innovations, research partnerships and digital tools designed to improve aviation operations.

With more than 60 technology projects displayed, the showcase reflected the importance of aviation technology advancements in creating efficient and connected travel experiences. The Emirates Group continues to explore emerging technologies through collaboration, experimentation and innovation, highlighting how digital transformation is becoming a central element in the evolution of global aviation.