H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, officially opened the Economy Middle East Summit 2025, which convened high-level public and private sector leaders to discuss collaborative solutions for sustainable economic transformation. The event was held at Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) under the theme “Bridging Sectors, Building Economic Growth”, and brought together more than 1,500 participants, including policymakers, business leaders, global investors, and technology pioneers.
In his opening address, H.E. Sheikh Nahayan welcomed delegates and emphasized the summit’s timely focus on collaboration and future-readiness.
He said:“It is a deep personal pleasure to join you at the second edition of the Economy Middle East Summit. We come together as governments, businesses, and stakeholders to share knowledge, forge partnerships, and imagine new possibilities for the future of our economies and our region.”
He added:“Today, we gather at a critical moment that demands clarity of vision, boldness of action, and depth of partnership. The global economic landscape is undergoing profound transformation — driven by shifts in trade, geopolitical realignments, technological revolutions, and societal expectations. These changes offer rare windows of opportunity.”
He affirmed the UAE’s proactive approach under the leadership of His Highness the President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, saying: “We are fully committed to economic diversification, innovation, and global competitiveness. From smart infrastructure and AI to sustainable finance and forward-looking education, we are building the pillars of future growth.”
Sheikh Nahayan went on to stress regional integration: “Now is the time to transform our regional ties into corridors of collaboration and opportunity. We must harmonize digital trade regulations, invest in green infrastructure, nurture entrepreneurs, and align our innovation and education systems. By working together, we can ensure that the Middle East is not only resilient — but energized with new possibilities.”
He concluded:“‘Bridging Sectors, Building Economic Growth’ is not just a slogan — it is a mission. Let us invest boldly, collaborate openly, and build a sustainable, inclusive economic future for our region.”
H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, delivered the opening remarks and shared the UAE perspective on navigating the global economy.
“The global economic landscape in 2025 is marked by heightened uncertainty. The IMF’s latest World Economic Outlook projects global growth at 2.8 percent and this year at 3 percent next year,” the minister said.
Al Marri explained that the slower than usual growth is primarily due to escalating trade tensions and persistent policy uncertainty. He also mentioned the resurgence of protectionist policies, most notably the recent US tariff hikes, which have disrupted trade flows, eroded business confidence, and delayed investments.
He added: “Our approach is rooted in the belief that economic prosperity is achieved through cooperation, not isolation. By building bridges, we aim to create a more inclusive and sustainable global economy. Our Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) with countries across Asia, Europe, and Africa reflect this commitment, expanding our market access, strengthening supply chains, and accelerating investment flows. These agreements have not only diversified our economic partnerships but have also bolstered our resilience against external shocks. As a result, we expect the impact of recent U.S. tariffs on the UAE economy to remain limited.”
Salem Al Darei, CEO of ADGM Authority said: “As an official partner of the Economy Middle East Summit, we are pleased to have been part of this platform that brought together influential voices from across the region. The event not only provided an invaluable opportunity for industry experts and leaders to engage in meaningful discussions, but also an opportunity for the ecosystem to listen to and connect on matters that are important for fostering innovation and driving sustainable economic growth.”
“ADGM remains committed to contributing towards a prosperous and sustainable economy by fostering innovation, enabling business growth, and strengthening collaboration between public and private sectors. Through strategic initiatives like these, ADGM continues to play a vital role in shaping the region’s economic future”, he added.
Economy, investment and financial services
A high-profile panel featuring Dr. Mahmoud Mohieldin, UN special envoy on Financing the 2030 Agenda, H.E. Rashed Al Blooshi, undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development; and Safaa El Tayeb El-Kogali, country director for the GCC, World Bank, discussed the world’s economic landscape, highlighting key issues that affect global trade, noting that the global economy’s order which has been in place for decades, is now changing.
The summit featured an in-depth analysis of the UAE’s investment ecosystem, with experts from Visa, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) and the Multiply Group discussing trade and investment opportunities across key sectors.
The panel shed light on the growing adoption of e-commerce and mobile commerce in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
A related panel on the financial services sector featured speakers from Wio Bank, Finstreet and the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of ADGM who explored the forces reshaping the industry, from digital innovation and regulatory developments to shifting customer expectations and regional growth.
Read more: Distinguished entities recognized for excellence at the Economy Middle East Summit
Technology, sustainability high on agenda of future-proofing economy
Technology continues to be a major conduit for enabling smart cities to thrive and enhancing living standards across the region, but also in transforming the mobility of people and goods as well as in transitioning to a greener and sustainable economy.
Major stakeholders and thought leaders in this field – from e& and Mercedes-Benz to Siemens and Mubadala – shared optimism on the region’s path to technological adoption and innovation.
The experts also examined innovative approaches to decarbonizing power systems, enhancing water and energy efficiency, and building infrastructure that supports long-term environmental and economic goals.
Joe Chidiac, Publisher of JC Media Group and organizers of the summit, said: “As we venture into today’s journey of dialogue and discovery, I challenge each one of you to embrace the spirit of innovation that has been the hallmark of the UAE and its capital, Abu Dhabi. The partnerships formed here, the ideas exchanged, and the commitments made will ripple beyond these walls to shape economies, empower communities, and create prosperity for generations to come. Together, let us bridge sectors and build not just growth, but a legacy of sustainable economic excellence.”
