Function1, the AI conference that made its debut earlier this year, returns to Dubai on November 18-19, 2025, at Festival Arena with bigger ambitions and more attendees.
The two-day event expects 10,000 attendees from 102 countries, featuring 150+ speakers and 100+ exhibitors. What sets Function1 apart is its timing and focus, which position itself as the year’s largest AI conference finale.
Function1 Targets AI Decision Makers Across Industries
The conference draws a specific crowd. According to event data, 64% of attendees hold founder or C-level positions. The attendee breakdown includes CEOs, CTOs, CIOs, tech leads, and managing directors from across the AI ecosystem.
“Function1 was a rare exception among AI events – genuinely refreshing. The audience selection was completely on point,” said one previous attendee reviewing the May 2025 debut.
The conference spans three stages covering AI developments, industry applications, and startup opportunities. Beyond the main sessions, attendees gain access to networking lounges, exhibition spaces, and the dedicated 1:1 networking app.
CREZEE Brings Decade of Tech Event Experience
Function1 is produced by CREZEE, a production house organizing tech events since 2014. The company has previously hosted notable figures, including Ethereum’s Vitalik Buterin, SingularityNET’s Ben Goertzel, and Binance’s CZ.
CREZEE’s track record includes events featuring the Winklevoss twins, Wikipedia’s Jimmy Wales, and investment veteran Tim Draper. This experience shows in Function1’s speaker selection and production quality.
The company expanded Function1 after positive feedback from the May 2025 debut. Attendee testimonials praised the audience curation and networking opportunities, leading to the November edition’s increased scale.
AI Genesis Hackathon Draws 4,000 Developers
Function1 includes the Middle East’s largest AI hackathon, AI Genesis, expecting 4,000+ developers across 300+ teams. The hackathon runs five days online, followed by two days in Dubai, culminating in live pitching at the conference.
The hackathon targets practical AI applications rather than theoretical research. Participants work on autonomous AI agents addressing real-world problems, with winners announced during the main conference.
This format combines learning opportunities for developers with showcase potential for startups and established companies seeking AI talent or solutions.
Function1’s Growth Strategy
Function1’s expansion from a single-day May event to a two-day November conference shows rapid scaling ambitions. The organizers increased capacity, speaker count, and exhibition space within six months.
This growth trajectory positions Function1 as a potential major player in the Middle East tech conference market. Success metrics include attendee retention, speaker quality maintenance, and international expansion opportunities.
The conference’s focus on practical AI applications rather than pure research could appeal to business attendees seeking implementable solutions. This may differentiate Function1 in a crowded market.
