DUBAI, 10th October, 2026 – The Annual Meeting of Global Future Leaders 2026 is set to commence next Tuesday in Dubai, organized by the UAE Government in partnership with the World Economic Forum (WEF) and in collaboration with the Dubai Future Foundation. The event, scheduled from 13th to 15th October, promises a comprehensive platform that will unite over 700 global leaders and experts representing sectors such as government, business, academia, sports, and culture.
This three-day summit is a continuation of a robust partnership of over 17 years between the UAE Government and the World Economic Forum. This collaboration has resulted in a series of specialized international forums aimed at forecasting the future and setting its agenda. The partnership has consistently injected UAE perspectives into global discussions, including at the WEF’s renowned Annual Meeting in Davos.
The meeting’s agenda brings to the forefront critical discussions on topics such as technological disruption, geopolitical uncertainty, economic resilience, innovation, and sustainable development. Eminent personalities from diverse fields – leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, academics, and policymakers – will gather to explore how to build futures that are resilient, inclusive, and prosperous.
Mohammed Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Principal Chairman of the Annual Meeting of Global Future Leaders, remarked, “The meeting offers an open global platform for exchanging perspectives and identifying solutions that enable nations and leaders to respond to rapid change.” This reflects the enduring partnership between the UAE Government and the WEF, underlining their commitment to international cooperation and dialogue on the future of development.
He emphasized that the discussions will focus on significant global concerns, including artificial intelligence, technology, economics, geopolitical challenges, leadership, and climate and sustainability. The insights gained will equip leaders with the tools to transform emerging challenges into opportunities.
Alois Zwinggi, President and CEO of the World Economic Forum, noted, “The Annual Meeting of Global Future Leaders will bring emerging and established leaders together to examine the challenges and opportunities that will define the coming decades.”
The meeting will navigate six core themes: Artificial Intelligence, Technology and Human Agency; Science, Discovery and Innovation; Economic Growth; Geopolitics, Security and History; Leadership, Business Innovation and Human Flourishing; and Climate, Nature and Sustainability. Through strategic dialogue and innovative formats such as ideation labs, immersive simulations, and Betazone sessions, participants will move from foresight to actionable strategies.
With a gathering that includes government leaders, business executives, international organizations, experts, academics, and innovators worldwide, the meeting enhances the UAE’s standing as a global hub for dialogue and innovation. It also strengthens the contribution of Arab talent to global discussions, further empowering future leaders.
Hosting this prestigious meeting underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering a platform for collaboration, innovation, and readiness for the future.
Team V.DIR-EM-UAE
