Sheikh Maktoum Welcomes WEF President Amid Global Future Councils
On Wednesday, His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who serves as the First Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE, held an important meeting with Børge Brende, the President and CEO of the World Economic Forum (WEF). This event took place alongside the Annual Meetings of the Global Future Councils and Cybersecurity 2025, hosted in Dubai from October 14 to 16.
High-Level Attendees Discuss Future Initiatives
The meeting featured a prominent group of attendees, including His Excellency Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, the Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Co-Chair of the Global Future Councils. Also present were His Excellency Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs; Her Excellency Ohood Al Roumi, Minister of State for Government Development and the Future; and His Excellency Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation.
Focus on Strategic Partnerships and Key Themes
During their discussions, Sheikh Maktoum and Mr. Brende explored the ongoing strategic partnership between the UAE Government and the World Economic Forum. They reviewed crucial themes for the current year’s Annual Meetings, which center on pivotal issues such as artificial intelligence, the green economy, energy transition, and food and water security.
Outcomes of the Annual Meetings
Sheikh Maktoum was updated on key outcomes from the meetings, particularly the launch of the Cybersecurity Forum. This forum aims to enhance global coordination in addressing digital challenges while ensuring secure and sustainable digital environments.
“Enhancing quality of life and advancing sustainable development are paramount,” Sheikh Maktoum emphasized, reaffirming the UAE’s dedication to fostering constructive global dialogue and collaboration between governments and international organizations.
The Role of Global Future Councils
His Highness recognized the vital role that the Global Future Councils play in promoting international cooperation and facilitating knowledge exchange. This initiative seeks to shape a better future for societies across the globe.
Praise for UAE’s Leadership
Børge Brende commended the UAE’s proactive leadership and its robust partnership with the World Economic Forum. He underscored the country’s commitment to annually hosting the Global Future Councils with renewed vision and purpose. This partnership serves as a model for creating a more sustainable and prosperous future focused on human well-being.
Key Participation and Focus Areas
The 2025 edition of the Global Future Councils assembles more than 700 experts from an impressive 580 organizations spread across 93 countries. The event features 37 councils that delve into six primary areas: Technology, Economy, Society, Environment, Governance, and Health. Participants aim to advance international efforts towards designing sustainable futures, improving community quality of life, and creating opportunities for upcoming generations.
Among the attending figures are global business leaders, academics, and policymakers ready to discuss the future trajectories of vital sectors. Insights gathered will inform the agenda for the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting in Davos.
Cybersecurity Conversations Take Center Stage
For the first time, the Annual Meeting of the Cybersecurity Council is being hosted alongside the Global Future Councils. This new initiative brings together over 150 senior leaders and 90 distinguished speakers with the aim of strengthening global cooperation and aligning cybersecurity strategies.
The discussions and collaborations formed at these gatherings emphasize the growing importance of digital security in our interconnected world, underscoring the critical need for innovative solutions in this rapidly evolving landscape.
