Dubai Hosts Annual Global Future Leaders Summit
More than 700 global leaders and experts are gathering in Dubai for the Annual Meeting of Global Future Leaders 2026, organized by the UAE Government and the World Economic Forum (WEF) in cooperation with the Dubai Future Foundation. The event is scheduled to take place from October 13 to 15.
The summit represents a continuation of a partnership spanning more than 17 years between the UAE Government and the WEF. This long-standing collaboration has previously included bringing UAE perspectives into global dialogues, such as the WEF's Annual Meeting in Davos.
Agenda Focuses on Technology and Geopolitics
Participants at the Dubai meeting will discuss technological disruption, geopolitical uncertainty, economic resilience, innovation, and sustainable development. The stated goal of these discussions is to build resilient, inclusive, and prosperous futures.
The program is structured around 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.
His Excellency Mohammed Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Principal Chairman of the meeting, stated that the event offers an open global platform for exchanging perspectives and identifying solutions to rapid change. He noted that the discussions will center on artificial intelligence, technology, economics, geopolitical challenges, leadership, and climate and sustainability.
Al Gergawi added that the outcomes are designed to equip leaders with tools to transform emerging challenges into opportunities, supporting innovative decision-making models and proactive approaches.
Formats Include Ideation Labs and Simulations
The meeting’s program combines strategic dialogue with specific formats such as ideation labs, immersive simulations, Betazone sessions, and podcast recordings. These formats are intended to help leaders move from foresight to action.
Alois Zwinggi, President and CEO of the WEF and Principal Chairman of the meeting, said the event aims to bring emerging and established leaders together to examine challenges and opportunities defining the coming decades through practical ideas and partnerships.
Attendees include government leaders, business executives, international organization representatives, experts, academics, and innovators. The group also includes members of the WEF’s Young Global Leaders and Global Shapers communities.