Dubai:The Annual Meeting of Global Future Leaders 2026 is set to begin next Tuesday, organized by the UAE Government and the World Economic Forum (WEF), in cooperation with Dubai Future Foundation, from October 13 to 15.
According to Emirates News Agency, this three-day event will gather over 700 international leaders and experts from various sectors, including government, business, academia, sports, and culture. The program is designed to facilitate strategic dialogue, experiential learning, and practical collaboration.
The meeting underscores a 17-year partnership between the UAE Government and the World Economic Forum. This collaboration has resulted in numerous specialized forums focused on anticipating and shaping future agendas, and has consistently integrated UAE perspectives into global discussions, such as the WEF's Annual Meeting in Davos.
Participants, including leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, academics, and policymakers, will address topics like technological disruption, geopolitical uncertainty, economic resilience, innovation, and sustainable development. The focus will be on building more resilient, inclusive, and prosperous futures.
Mohammed Al Gergawi, the UAE's Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Principal Chairman of the event, highlighted the meeting's role as a global platform for exchanging perspectives and identifying solutions that enable nations and leaders to respond to rapid change. He emphasized the importance of innovative decision-making models, proactive approaches, and the creation of resilient governments and competitive economies.
Discussions will cover critical issues such as artificial intelligence, technology, economics, geopolitical challenges, leadership, and climate sustainability. The outcomes aim to equip leaders with tools and perspectives to transform emerging challenges into growth opportunities.
Alois Zwinggi, President and CEO of the World Economic Forum and Principal Chairman of the meeting, noted that it will unite emerging and established leaders to explore challenges and opportunities defining the coming decades. The meeting aims to foster practical ideas and partnerships for a more resilient future.
Structured around six core themes, including artificial intelligence and climate sustainability, the program will use innovative formats like ideation labs and immersive simulations to help leaders transition from foresight to action. Sessions will focus on global transformations and necessary proactive policies.
The event will include government leaders, business executives, international organizations, experts, academics, innovators, and members of the WEF's Young Global Leaders, Global Shapers, and Social Innovators communities. The participation of young Arab leaders from the Great Arab Minds initiative will also enhance Arab talent's contribution to global dialogue and solutions.
Hosting this meeting reinforces the UAE's position as a global hub for dialogue, innovation, and future readiness, building on its legacy of convening international stakeholders and empowering future leaders.
