Dubai: H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE, emphasized the significance of the tenth annual Arab Fiscal Forum as a strategic platform for Arab nations. This event allows countries to reassess fiscal policies amidst global economic shifts, aiming to fortify economic resilience and pursue sustainable futures.
According to Emirates News Agency, Sheikh Maktoum highlighted the necessity of an institutional financial dialogue to tackle challenges like global economic fluctuations and development financing needs. The forum's hosting in the UAE underscores the nation's dedication to empowering finance ministers and decision-makers to enhance financial stability and inclusive growth in the region.
The Ministry of Finance, with the Arab Monetary Fund and the International Monetary Fund, organized the forum on the preparatory day of the World Governments Summit 2026, held from February 3 to 5 in Dubai. The forum featured key figures like Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Dr. Kristalina Georgieva, and Fahad M. Alturki, gathering finance ministers, central bank governors, and experts to discuss regional and global economic developments and fiscal policy priorities.
The discussions focused on public finance reform, development financing, spending efficiency, and digital transformation in fiscal policy management. Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini stressed the need for flexible fiscal policies and gradual structural reforms to build macroeconomic resilience. He also emphasized digital transformation's role in improving governance and transparency.
Dr. Kristalina Georgieva highlighted the forum's importance amid global geopolitical, trade, and technological shifts, advocating for strong fiscal policies and international support to drive growth. Fahad Al Turki noted the forum's role in assessing a decade of fiscal dialogue and the Arab Monetary Fund's contributions to regional economic stability.
The forum included panels on fiscal policy challenges, ten years of dialogue, expenditure policies, and digital transformation. The event reaffirmed the Ministry of Finance's commitment to fostering regional financial dialogue, enhancing cooperation, and developing resilient Arab fiscal policies.
