Some of the world’s best-known brand names are converging on Dubai tonight. The 14th edition of the Global Brand Awards takes place this evening — Friday, October 2, 2026 — at Address Sky View, where leading brands across real estate, banking, education, hospitality, automotive, technology and lifestyle will take home honours.

What the awards are about

Organised by Global Brands Magazine, the awards recognise standout brands across seven sectors: real estate, banking, education, hospitality, automotive, technology and lifestyle. Winners are chosen by the magazine’s research team and then reviewed by independent evaluators, judged on four criteria: market performance, innovation, customer experience and consistency.

CEO Jay Reddy said the awards have become a recognised benchmark for brand leadership, and that Dubai’s position as a global centre for business and innovation makes it a fitting host. The announcement was released via PR Newswire on September 30, 2026.

Dubai skyline at night seen from a high-rise terrace, illuminated towers
Dubai’s skyline at night — the city is the fitting host, says CEO Jay Reddy.

The presenters on stage tonight

The awards will be presented by three prominent figures:

  • Mr Yaqoob Al Ali — Executive Director and Private Advisor, Office of Sheikh Juma Bin Maktoum Al Maktoum
  • Dr Sunil Ambalavelil — Lawyer and Global Executive Chairman, Kaden Boriss
  • Mr Hussain Yaslam Binsumida — Director, Investments, Office of Al Shaikh Ahmed Bin Obaid Al Maktoum

Their presence underlines the ceremony’s standing as a serious business fixture rather than a casual industry night out.

AI gets its own spotlight

Two keynote speakers will address the role of artificial intelligence in building brands — a fitting theme for a city that has made AI adoption a national priority. Expect the speeches to focus on how technology is reshaping customer experience and brand loyalty, two of the very criteria the awards are judged on.

Awards stage with dramatic spotlight beams and silhouettes of an audience in a celebratory atmosphere
The 14th Global Brand Awards ceremony at Address Sky View tonight.

Visiting Dubai this weekend?

If you happen to be in the city tonight, the Downtown area around Address Sky View will be buzzing. It is a fine excuse to plan an evening in the neighbourhood: browse our round-up of the places to visit in Dubai, check the best luxury hotels in Dubai if you are booking a special stay, or time your trip with the Dubai shopping guide for a retail fix. And if you are still deciding when to come, see the best time to visit Dubai for a season-by-season breakdown.

Frequently asked questions

Short answer: The 14th Global Brand Awards take place tonight, Friday October 2, 2026, at Address Sky View in Dubai, honouring leading brands across seven sectors including banking, hospitality and technology.

When and where are the Global Brand Awards 2026?

The 14th edition is held on Friday, October 2, 2026, at Address Sky View in Dubai.

Which brands are honoured?

Winning brands span real estate, banking, education, hospitality, automotive, technology and lifestyle. They are selected by Global Brands Magazine’s research team and reviewed by independent evaluators on market performance, innovation, customer experience and consistency.

Who is presenting the awards?

Mr Yaqoob Al Ali, Dr Sunil Ambalavelil and Mr Hussain Yaslam Binsumida will present the awards on stage.

Can the public attend?

The announcement describes an industry awards ceremony; no public ticket information has been published. It appears to be an invitation-only event rather than a ticketed public show — so this has not been officially confirmed, and visitors should treat it as a night to admire the Downtown buzz from outside.