At Gitex Global 2025, Mansoor Al Malik shares insights into Project Zero – a pioneering initiative that upcycles counterfeit products
GITEX GLOBAL 2025 marked its 45th edition with record-breaking attendance and an unprecedented gathering of global tech leaders, government delegations, startups, and investors. Held from 13–17 October at Dubai World Trade Centre, the event welcomed over 6,800 exhibitors, 2,000 startups, and 1,200 investors from more than 180 countries. This milestone edition underscored Dubai’s role as a global hub for innovation, where technology, economic vision, and geopolitical strategy converged to shape the future of intelligence-driven societies.
In an exclusive conversation, Mansoor Al Malik, Executive Director of the Policies & Legislation Division at Dubai Customs, shares insights into Project Zero — a pioneering initiative that upcycles counterfeit goods rather than simply destroying them. The project supports social reform and promotes the circular economy, creating added value for the community. He also sheds light on the broader impact of the initiative and what lies ahead.
Interviewer: Aya Zhang. Multimedia production: Eduardo Buenagua & Joel Amparo

