The International AI Summit is structured around three core strategic themes:
Demonstrating how AI is delivering real-world value across sectors including healthcare, life sciences, financial services, manufacturing, agriculture and public services.
Focusing on computing power, semiconductors, quantum technologies, digital connectivity and sustainable energy as the foundations of AI leadership.
Showcasing frontier developments including agentic AI, quantum-enabled systems and workforce transformation.
These themes will be supported by cross-cutting strands on collaboration, talent and skills development, and trustworthy AI governance as a competitiveness advantage.
The International AI Summit has been convened by the Government of Ireland.
Session timings and speakers may be subject to minor changes
The innovation spotlight will be an experience-led environment that brings AI innovation to life through real-world, tangible applications demonstrated by a diverse range of exhibitors from Ireland, Europe, and the US. The showcase will feature a mix of stand formats designed to create an immersive and engaging experience for delegates.
As part of its Presidency of the Council of the European Union, Ireland will host the International AI Summit on 14 October 2026, officially launching European AI Innovation Month, in partnership with the European Commission.
Under the theme ‘Harnessing AI to Revolutionise Europe’s Competitiveness’ the International AI Summit will set out Europe’s path to global leadership in applied, trustworthy AI.
The Summit will convene EU and global leaders from business and Government, as well as experts on AI, to examine the potential for AI to transform key areas of Europe’s economy and society and expand concepts of what may be achievable in the future.
Attendees can also explore an Innovation Spotlight exhibition space demonstrating cutting-edge AI innovation and avail of networking opportunities with international decision-makers and experts. The AI Summit will showcase cutting-edge AI innovation, research and emerging technologies.
The International AI Summit will position Ireland as Europe’s premier AI innovation hub, showcasing the strength and diversity of its ecosystem where multinational companies, scale-ups and start-ups thrive together to drive innovation, alongside its highly skilled concentration of software engineers, data scientists and AI researchers supported by world-class educational capacity.
The Summit will reflect the ambitions set out in Ireland’s new National Digital and AI Strategy, Digital Ireland – Connecting our People, Securing our Future, which reinforces Ireland’s commitment to being a strong voice in Europe for a digital economy that supports competitiveness and innovation while protecting data privacy and fundamental rights.
The Summit will also highlight Ireland’s strategic advantages in the global AI economy, including its critical infrastructure, digital connectivity, semiconductor capabilities and commitment to regulatory clarity, trust and forward-looking governance.
Attendance is by invitation only; all attendees must complete the Irish Presidency accreditation process in advance of the event and have received a valid event QR code.
Invitations are issued to named individuals only. Anyone attending must have received an individual invitation, completed accreditation and received a valid event QR code.
Invitations are strictly non-transferable.
A livestream of the Summit will be available on the presidency website on 14 October.
On-site registration will not be available on the day as accreditation must be completed online in advance.
Please contact the accreditation team as soon as possible via email: [email protected]
To help the team resolve your query promptly, please include your full name, contact telephone number and details of the issue with the accreditation access. Those who haven’t completed the accreditation process will not be allowed to access the event.
Please contact the accreditation team as soon as possible via email: [email protected]
To help the team resolve your query promptly, please include your full name, contact telephone number and details of the issue with your accreditation access. Those who arrive without a QR code will not be guaranteed access to the event.
The location for the International AI Summit is the RDS, Dublin. Eircode D04 AK83
All invited attendees should enter through the Concert Hall entrance on Merrion Road.
Registration takes place 7:30am – 8:30am. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to allow sufficient time for registration and to explore the Innovation Spotlight Exhibition.
On arrival at the Concert Hall, your QR code and photo ID will be validated, and you will receive your summit lanyard. Your lanyard must be worn at all times at the venue.
The recommended dress code for the event is business casual. Attendees are encouraged to dress in a manner appropriate for an international conference.
There is a complimentary cloakroom upon arrival to store coats, a small bag or luggage.
Free Wi-Fi is available onsite via an open network accessible to all attendees.
Yes. Food and refreshments will be available throughout the day, including morning refreshments, lunch and evening networking refreshments.
Dietary requirements submitted during the accreditation process will be accommodated. If you did not notify us please contact: [email protected]
Following the plenary, from 6:00pm – 9:30pm there will be an evening event with food, drink and music. We encourage all attendees to stay, connect and enjoy the evening together.
No formal meeting room booking service will be available. Attendees are encouraged to use the informal networking opportunities provided across the Summit programme.
First Aid will be accessible on-site throughout the event, with ambulance support available if required. If you need medical assistance, please visit the Summit Helpdesk.
A dedicated smoking/vaping area will be available at the back of Hall 1 for guests who wish to smoke. Please note that smoking or vaping is not allowed in the venue.
The Summit will feature senior political, business, technology and thought leaders from Ireland, Europe and internationally. Agenda can be found here
The Innovation Spotlight Exhibition will be an experience-led environment that brings AI innovation to life through real-world, tangible applications demonstrated by a diverse range of international exhibitors. Our 50+ exhibitors can be viewed here.
All sessions within the plenary will be delivered in English.
No, seating in the plenary session will be unassigned and available on a first come, first served basis. We encourage attendees to arrive early to secure their preferred seating.
Photography, videography and livestreaming will take place during the Summit. Attendees may appear in photography, videography, media coverage or the livestream.
Please be respectful of speakers and attendees, where photography or filming may be restricted. Attendees may take photographs and short recordings for personal use.
International AI Summit social media hashtags are: #AISummitIE and #Ireland2026EU
From Dublin Airport
Dublin Airport is approximately 10km from Dublin city centre and is well connected to the RDS by public transport and taxi.
By Aircoach: Aircoach Route 702 travels directly between Dublin Airport and the RDS, stopping on Merrion Road outside the main RDS entrance.
By Taxi: Taxis are available outside Arrivals, with a journey to the RDS typically costing €30–€40, depending on traffic.
Public Transport
DART(Commuter rail): Lansdowne Road and Sandymount DART stations are both within a short walking distance of the RDS.
Bus: The RDS is served by several Dublin Bus and Go-Ahead Ireland routes from Dublin city centre, including routes 4, 7, 7A, 18, 27X and S2.
Luas(light rail): There is no direct Luas service to the RDS. You can connect from Luas Red Line to the DART at Connolly Station, with services to Lansdowne Road and Sandymount.
Cycling: The RDS is easily accessible by bike from Dublin city centre, with dedicated cycle lanes and bicycle parking available on site.
No, there is no on-site parking at the RDS. Limited parking is available at Simmonscourt Car Park (D04 E6N) and Grand Hall Car Park (D04 TV26).
Yes, the venue is fully accessible. If you need particular supports that were not included as part of your accreditation, please contact us as soon as possible.
E-scooters and e-bikes are not permitted on the event premises and cannot be brought inside the venue. There is no parking or charging facilities available, so please make alternative travel arrangements.
Media representatives—including journalists, photographers, videographers and camera crews—must complete the official Irish Presidency media accreditation process. Further information is available through the Irish Presidency media accreditation page.
The Summit has organised appropriate security and access arrangements to ensure the safety and security of all participants.
All attendees are validated upon arrival. The name on the identification provided must match the details submitted during the accreditation process.
The RDS is committed to sustainable event delivery and holds several ISO certifications. Sustainability initiatives across the campus include a 100kW solar panel array, energy management systems, waste recycling and composting, reduced single-use plastics, eco-friendly cleaning products, EV charging points and pollinator-friendly planting. Our catering partner is also a Level 3-star accredited member of the Sustainable Restaurant Association’s Food Made Good programme.
General queries: [email protected]
Accreditation queries: [email protected]