Annual Meeting of Global Future Leaders 2026 Meeting Overview 1 3 - 1 5 O C T O B E R D U B A I , U N I T E D A R A B E M I R A T E S

The world is entering a period of profound transformation. As new technologies reshape economies and global cooperation becomes more complex, established assumptions about how societies function, economies grow and institutions operate are being tested.

At this pivotal moment of regional and global recalibration, the World Economic Forum, in collaboration with the Government of the United Arab Emirates, will host the inaugural Annual Meeting of Global Future Leaders from 13-15 October 2026 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The Programme Participants will engage in dialogues on geopolitical uncertainty, technological disruption, economic resilience and prosperity, innovation and sustainable development. By combining ideation workshops, immersive storytelling, open dialogue and experiential formats, the programme is designed to turn foresight into action, helping participants move from emerging ideas to strategies and scalable solutions.

– Betazone Sessions: Interactive sessions that use storytelling, visual communication and participatory formats to bring emerging issues to life.

– “Davos on Air” Podcasts: High-impact conversations that resonate with the broader public through engaging audio storytelling.

The meeting will bring together 400 dynamic leaders from government, business, academia, science, technology and civil society, serving as a platform for next-generation communities to connect, ideate and collaborate. Through forward-looking dialogue and intergenerational exchange, participants will explore emerging trends, challenge prevailing assumptions, and develop a long-term view of the opportunities and risks that will define the next decade.

– Ideation Labs: Anchored around the most pressing global challenges and led by experts at the forefront of their fields, these sessions create space for deep ideation, fresh thinking and collaborative solutions.

– Immersive Simulations: Interactive foresight exercises that place leaders in plausible future scenarios, challenging them to cooperate, compete and make strategic choices for growth and resilience.

– Experiential Learning Journeys: Immersive experiences and site visits across the UAE innovation ecosystem.

Frequently asked questions When will the meeting take place? The meetings will be held on 13-15 October 2026, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Which communities will convene in Dubai? Young Global Leaders and YGL Alumni, as well as select Global Shapers, Social Innovators, New Generation Industry Leaders and participants from business, government, international organizations, civil society and academia.

Where will I stay? PublicisLive, the Forum’s service provider, will arrange accommodation for participants who request hotel assistance on MyForum.

Do I need a visa? For any participant who requires a visa, the Government of the United Arab Emirates has put in place a free visa process. More information will be shared on My Forum closer to the event.

When should I arrive? Young Global Leaders and YGL Alumni should plan to arrive by the end of the day on 12 October. All other participants should plan to arrive by 13 October. More detailed travel information will be shared as it becomes available.

Who do I contact for more information? Please reach out to your Forum contact, as indicated in your My Forum account page under your profile, or send an email to [email protected].

Tuesday 13 October

A dedicated day of curated programming for the Young Global Leaders community to convene, connect and engage before the welcome reception.

Wednesday 14 October

A full day of interactive programming, opening with a high-profile plenary and continuing with sessions designed to foster deep thinking, exchange and collaboration. Public-facing livestreamed and podcast sessions will extend the meeting’s reach and amplify messages with broader audiences.

Thursday 15 October

A morning of collaborative working and ideation, culminating in a high- level closing plenary, followed by an afternoon where participants can engage in immersive learning field trips across the UAE.

H.E. Mr Erkki Keldo Minister of Economy and Industry Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications of Estonia Suur-Ameerika 1 Tallinn 10122 Estonia

7 August 2026

Dear Minister,

We are pleased to invite you to participate in the World Economic Forum’s inaugural Annual Meeting for Global Future Leaders, taking place from 13 to 15 October 2026 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

At a moment of profound global transformation, marked by rapid technological change, shifting geopolitical realities and mounting uncertainty, the need for a new kind of leadership has never been more urgent: one rooted in collaboration, insight, integrity and the capacity to act across generations and sectors.

As a Young Global Leader, you are part of an exceptional global community of leaders committed to shaping a more resilient, inclusive and prosperous future. Your perspective and leadership would bring an important contribution to this inaugural gathering, which will convene 400 leaders from government, business, academia, science, technology and civil society, alongside members of the Forum’s next- generation communities.

Through forward-looking dialogue, immersive labs, and intergenerational exchange, participants will explore the trends, technologies and leadership models that will define the next decade. The meeting also offers a forum to connect with leaders from the United Arab Emirates and the wider region.

The World Economic Forum, as the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation, will work closely with your office to build a personalized agenda to ensure that your participation in Dubai will achieve maximum impact.

Yours sincerely,

Alois Zwinggi President and CEO

Maroun Kairouz Managing Director