The World Government Summit 2026 officially began today in Dubai under the theme “Shaping Future Governments,” with broad international participation. The summit hosts over 60 heads of state and government and their deputies, more than 500 ministers representing over 150 countries, along with leaders from major international organizations and companies, and more than 6,250 participants from around the world.
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, may God protect him, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, may God bless him, extended a warm welcome to all guests attending this leading global platform, emphasizing its role in enhancing dialogue, aligning visions, and fostering collaboration among governments.
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan stated that the summit has become one of the world’s most prominent platforms for unifying efforts and exchanging ideas in service of humanity. He reaffirmed the UAE’s belief that international cooperation and collective action are vital to addressing the challenges of rapid global transformation and building a better future for the next generations.
His Highness also noted that the UAE’s forward-looking vision has made it a hub for progressive policies beyond traditional frameworks, stressing that the world is at a critical moment, facing borderless global challenges that require unified efforts and cooperation.
A New Hope for the World
For his part, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said:
“We welcome the world to the UAE. Today, we open our doors and hearts to 150 governments, heads of state, thought leaders, and decision-makers as part of the World Government Summit 2026.”
His Highness continued:
“Our goal is to work together to create new hope during these difficult global turning points. We believe this elite group of leaders and thinkers can chart a path toward a brighter and more just future.”
His Highness added:
“In the UAE, we believe that those who initiate change will shape the future—not those who wait for it. Anticipating what lies ahead is an investment in progress and sustainable development. Governments now have a historic responsibility to design innovative systems that can lead their societies through rapid global change.”
His Highnessemphasized:
“Despite the geopolitical, economic, and technological challenges the world is witnessing, our message remains clear: human willpower is stronger. Our true bet is on unity, closeness, and sharing knowledge—because real success is inclusive and collective.”
A Rich and Diverse Agenda
This year’s summit presents a comprehensive and diverse agenda with more than 445 sessions featuring over 450 global speakers, including heads of state, ministers, experts, and decision-makers. Discussions center around five key pillars:
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Global governance and effective leadership
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Societal well-being and human capability
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Economic prosperity and emerging opportunities
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Future of cities and demographic transformations
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Future outlooks and new frontiers
The summit also includes 25 global forums on key sectors affecting humanity’s future, and more than 45 high-level ministerial meetings, including:
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The Arab Ministers of Finance Meeting
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The Arab Ministers of Youth Meeting
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The Global Councils on Sustainable Development Goals
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A ministerial dialogue on next-generation government models
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Sessions on the future of retail, sports, tourism, and more
International Governmental and Strategic Dialogues
A series of international meetings are being held by various governments and organizations, including:
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A governmental meeting by the Republic of Uzbekistan
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The Ecuador Future Forum (attended by the President of Ecuador)
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A bilateral AI dialogue with Kazakhstan and South Korea
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The Kuwait–UAE Economic Forum
Strategic conferences in collaboration with global institutions include:
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The Latin America and Caribbean Investment Forum (with the International Finance Corporation)
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The Arab Government Administration Forum (with the Arab Administrative Development Organization)
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The Arab Public Finance Forum (attended by the IMF Managing Director)
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The 10th International Cooperation Conference (with the Caribbean States Association)
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A closed session on AI readiness (with the IMF)
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A session on the future of aviation (with ICAO)
Further sessions include:
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A mayors’ dialogue on future housing (with the UN-Habitat Executive Director)
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A ministerial roundtable on the blue economy (with the GCC)
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A high-level OECD–EU bilateral dialogue
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A meeting of the Board of the Latin American Center for Development Administration
Strategic Reports and Prestigious Awards
The summit will release 36 strategic reports in collaboration with global think tanks, academic institutions, and research centers, focusing on trends and policy recommendations for future-ready governments.
This year’s edition also features four prestigious awards:
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Best Minister in the World Award (in partnership with PwC)
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The Global Government Excellence Award (in collaboration with Ernst & Young)
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The Dubai International Award for Best Sustainable Development Practices (with UN-Habitat and Dubai Municipality)
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The Global Teacher Prize (in partnership with the Varkey Foundation)
