UAE President, Mohammed bin Rashid welcome guests to WGS 2026

Global participation and high-level attendance

The summit brings together more than 60 heads of state and government and their deputies, over 500 ministers, and representatives from more than 150 governments. It also convenes over 80 international and regional organisations, more than 700 CEOs of leading global corporations, and 87 Nobel laureates and distinguished scientists, with total participation exceeding 6,250 attendees.

Mohamed bin Zayed: Platform for dialogue and collective action

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed extended a warm welcome to world leaders and thought leaders, noting that the summit has become a vital global forum for coordination, dialogue, and translating ideas into tangible action. He reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to building partnerships, facilitating diplomatic dialogue, and supporting international efforts to promote peace, prosperity, and global stability through collective action.

Mohammed bin Rashid: Inspiring hope and shaping the future

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said the UAE is honoured to welcome representatives from 150 governments and global thinkers, stressing that the summit aims to inspire renewed hope amid global challenges. He highlighted the importance of proactive leadership, innovation, and shared responsibility in shaping sustainable and inclusive futures, emphasising that solidarity and knowledge-sharing are key to overcoming global challenges.

Extensive agenda and key themes

The 2026 summit features more than 445 sessions with over 450 global figures. Its agenda focuses on five core themes: Global Governance and Effective Leadership; Societal Wellbeing and Building Capacities; Economic Prosperity and Strategic Investments; Urban Future and Evolving Demographics; and Future Realities and Emerging Frontiers.

Forums, meetings, and strategic dialogues

The summit includes 25 global forums and more than 45 ministerial and high-level meetings, such as the Arab Finance Ministers Meeting, Arab Youth Ministers Meeting, and forums on sustainable development, future governments, retail, sport, and tourism. It also hosts specialised international forums, bilateral dialogues on artificial intelligence, and economic forums involving regional and global partners.

Reports, surveys, and global awards

During the summit, 36 strategic reports will be released in collaboration with international knowledge partners, alongside the launch of the third edition of the Global Ministers Survey. Honours to be presented include the Best Minister Award, Most Reformed Government Global Award, Dubai International Best Practices Award for Sustainable Development, and the Global Teacher Prize.