Empowering the Future: The Young Arab Leaders Forum
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, recently graced the inaugural Young Arab Leaders Forum, a significant pre-event for the upcoming World Governments Summit 2025. This gathering, which brought together over 200 officials, experts, and emerging leaders from across the Arab world, served as a platform to discuss the vital role of youth in shaping the future of the region.
The Vision for Arab Youth
In his address, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the critical importance of empowering Arab youth. He articulated a vision where young leaders are not just participants but pivotal players in driving sustainable economic and social development. “Empowering youth is a top priority,” he stated, referencing the ‘Young Arab Leaders’ initiative launched nearly two decades ago by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of leaders equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to innovate and lead.
A Platform for Dialogue and Collaboration
The forum featured a rich agenda filled with keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive sessions focusing on various themes such as youth leadership, economic development, and innovation. Khalfan Belhoul, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the ‘Young Arab Leaders’ initiative, opened the event by underscoring the immense potential of Arab youth as the region’s greatest asset. He identified five transformative sectors—artificial intelligence, the data economy, green technology, biotechnology and personalized medicine, and sustainable agriculture—that are poised to redefine the future landscape for the next generation.
Preparing for Modern Challenges
Former Speaker of the National Assembly of Kuwait, Marzouq Al-Ghanim, addressed the necessity of preparing young leaders to tackle contemporary challenges. He highlighted the importance of resilience, adaptability, and critical thinking in today’s fast-paced world. Al-Ghanim also pointed out the role of media in amplifying Arab voices globally, advocating for strategic engagement to ensure that youth perspectives are heard and valued.
Government’s Role in Youth Integration
Sheikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Minister of Finance and National Economy, discussed the essential role of governments in integrating youth into the economy. He emphasized the need for robust infrastructure, digitization, and hands-on experience to empower young people. Al Khalifa noted that today’s Arab youth are better positioned for success than previous generations, thanks to significant investments in education and healthcare.
Entrepreneurship and Innovation
The forum also delved into youth leadership and entrepreneurship. Hussain Sajwani, Founder and Chairman of DAMAC Properties, stressed the importance of early action, hard work, and lifelong learning. He called on governments to accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence to enhance economic resilience. In a separate session, successful entrepreneurs like Mohamad Ballout, Mahmoud Adi, and Hosam Arab shared insights on the significance of flexibility, perseverance, and access to venture capital as crucial elements for success in the business world.
Youth in Diplomacy and Global Engagement
Omar Ghobash, UAE Ambassador to the Holy See, highlighted the role of youth leadership in Arab diplomacy. He pointed out that the UAE’s diplomatic achievements stem from agility, resilience, and teamwork. Ghobash emphasized the importance of efficient resource utilization and strong collaboration between government and society as foundational pillars for sustainable progress.
The Power of Sports and Culture
Beyond business and governance, the Young Arab Leaders Forum explored youth leadership in sports, arts, and culture. A session featuring renowned athletes like Sami Al-Jaber and Ismail Matar discussed how sports can serve as a powerful platform for youth empowerment and regional collaboration. The economic and social impacts of investing in young athletes were also examined, showcasing the multifaceted benefits of sports.
In another engaging session, prominent figures from the arts and culture sector, including Tunisian artist eL Seed and Egyptian architect Shahira Fahmy, explored the role of creative industries in fostering youth innovation and preserving Arab heritage. They discussed how the arts can position the region as a vibrant hub for cultural influence, encouraging young people to engage with their heritage while innovating for the future.
A Strategic Role for Youth
The forum culminated with a keynote address by Rania Al-Mashat, Egypt’s Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation. She reflected on the strategic role of youth in shaping the Arab world’s future, reinforcing the idea that the next generation holds the key to unlocking the region’s potential.
The Young Arab Leaders Forum not only highlighted the capabilities of youth but also served as a reminder of the collective responsibility to nurture and empower them. With the right support and opportunities, young Arab leaders are poised to drive transformative change, ensuring a brighter future for their communities and the region as a whole.
