Today marks Day Zero of the World Governments (WGS) Summit 2025, taking place in Dubai and running until February 13 under the theme ‘Shaping Future Governments’. This summit is a pivotal event for global cooperation and innovation, showcasing how nations can work together to address pressing challenges.
Day Zero will feature several significant forums, including the Arab Fiscal Forum, the Arab Meeting for Young Leaders, and the Young Arab Leaders Forum. There will be wide participation from prominent officials, visionaries, decision-makers, and numerous international organizations, WAM reported.
Record international participation
The 12th edition of the World Governments Summit 2025 is witnessing record international participation. Over 30 heads of state and government, more than 80 international and regional organizations, along with global institutions, will be present. Additionally, 140 government delegations will join thought leaders and experts to discuss major global trends in over 200 interactive sessions, featuring more than 300 global speakers.
The Summit will also host over 30 ministerial meetings and roundtables, attended by more than 400 ministers. These discussions will be vital for shaping policies that impact the future of governance worldwide.
9th Arab Fiscal Forum
The 9th Arab Fiscal Forum, jointly organized by the Arab Monetary Fund (AMF), the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the Ministry of Finance, will focus on designing efficient and equitable fiscal policies. The aim is to address debt vulnerabilities and future challenges amid tighter financing constraints. Key topics include subsidy reforms, tax administration, and public sector enterprise reforms.
The forum’s opening session will feature speakers such as Mohamed Al Hussaini, the UAE’s Minister of State for Financial Affairs; Kristalina Georgieva, the managing director of the International Monetary Fund; and Dr. Fahad Al Turki, director-general and chairman of the Board of the Arab Monetary Fund.
Sessions addressing fiscal policy challenges
Other sessions at the forum, attended by Arab ministers of finance and governors of central banks, will cover macroeconomic developments and their implications for fiscal positions. Topics will include options for fiscal policy design in the face of mounting debt pressures, fiscal policy and climate resilience, and revamping tax systems for significant structural economic change.
Arab Meeting for Young Leaders
Day Zero will also feature the Arab Meeting for Young Leaders, a collaborative platform focused on engaging decision-makers and Arab youth. This meeting is characterized by extensive youth involvement in all phases, including preparation, implementation, attendance, and participation.
Hosted in collaboration with the Arab Youth Centre and supported by governmental and non-governmental partners, the meeting emphasizes trust in youth and their potential.
Engaging sessions for youth
Sessions at the meeting will include the Arab Youth Competitiveness Index: Thriving in a Rapidly Changing World, The Vision of the League of Arab States, The Art of Etiquette: An Arab Perspective, and The Last Drop of Oil: Seizing Opportunities, among others.
Read more | WGS 2025: Dubai to host first edition of Young Arab Leaders Forum
Young Arab Leaders forum
The Young Arab Leaders Forum will also take place on Day Zero of the World Governments Summit 2025. This dynamic platform is dedicated to empowering the next generation of Arab innovators and professionals. The forum focuses on promoting entrepreneurship, leadership, and professional growth by leveraging mentorship programs, educational initiatives, and insights from prominent Arab leaders, preparing youth for future challenges.
Topics for young leaders
Sessions at the forum will address important topics like preparing young leaders for a new world and the economic state of the Arab world. The forum will examine the status of Arab leadership in entrepreneurship, sports, arts, and culture, while discussing the crucial role of young leaders in planning and management at senior leadership positions.
