- Türkiye is investing billions in AI and data centre infrastructure as it seeks to become a major digital hub between Europe and Asia.
- The expansion of cloud, data centres and AI applications is increasing the need for robust cybersecurity, data protection and AI governance.
- GITEX Ai Türkiye 2026 will bring global technology and security players together in Istanbul to explore the region’s rapidly developing digital economy.
The country’s ICT market is valued at around US$38 billion in 2026 and is projected to reach US$58 billion by 2031. As investment accelerates, cybersecurity is emerging as an important part of the infrastructure required to support Türkiye’s expanding digital economy.
Türkiye has allocated US$3 billion to data centre and AI investments this year and is seeking to mobilise a further US$10 billion in private-sector funding. The country also aims to develop one gigawatt of data centre capacity by 2030.
The rapid expansion is being accompanied by a major investment in AI skills. Under Türkiye’s AI Action Plan, the government has announced plans to train 10,000 advanced AI specialists and 100,000 professionals able to apply AI technologies.
The scale of this transformation will bring increased security considerations for organisations operating across critical digital infrastructure. Expanding cloud environments, data centres, connected systems and AI applications create a larger attack surface, while the growing use of AI introduces additional challenges around data protection, model security and governance.
These issues will be among the technology priorities highlighted at the inaugural GITEX Ai Türkiye 2026, taking place at Istanbul Expo Centre on 9–10 September. The event will bring together more than 300 technology companies and startups, alongside investors, policymakers and technology executives.
Cybersecurity and dual-use technology are among the sectors featured at the event, alongside AI, cloud and connectivity, 5G, data centres, quantum computing and smart manufacturing.
The event also has a strong regional dimension, with exhibitors and participants from the Middle East, Africa, Europe and Asia. Google Cloud, HPE, NVIDIA, Huawei, Dell Technologies and SAP are among the global technology companies confirmed to participate.
For security professionals, Türkiye’s rapid AI development provides a useful example of the wider challenge facing emerging digital economies: ensuring that security, resilience and governance develop alongside investment in AI and infrastructure rather than after deployment.
