The Dubai Business Forum, powered by Dubai Chambers, concluded on November 2, 2023, after two days of engaging discussions, inspiring speeches, and fruitful networking among 2,000 participants from 49 countries. The event, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, explored the theme of Shifting Economic Power: Dubai and the Future of Global Trade.
The forum featured a stellar lineup of speakers, including global CEOs, heads of state, and major investors. They shared their insights and perspectives on the opportunities and challenges presented by the digital revolution, the changing geopolitical landscape, and the post-pandemic recovery. Some of the prominent speakers included His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence of the UAE, His Excellency Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology of the UAE, His Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation of the UAE, His Excellency Hamad Buamim, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, His Excellency Khaldoon Al Mubarak, Group CEO and Managing Director of Mubadala Investment Company, and His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade of the UAE .
The forum also hosted several panel discussions, workshops, and breakout sessions, covering topics such as the future of prosperity, the role of digitization, the impact of artificial intelligence, the importance of sustainability, and the potential of emerging markets. The participants had the opportunity to exchange ideas, learn from best practices, and forge partnerships with like-minded peers and experts.
One of the highlights of the forum was the Deals Hub, a dedicated platform for dealmaking, where participants could pitch their projects, showcase their products, and connect with potential investors and partners. The Deals Hub facilitated over 500 meetings and generated over $1 billion worth of deals in various sectors, such as technology, tourism, healthcare, education, and renewable energy .
Another highlight of the forum was the Future Theatre, a futuristic dome that showcased the latest innovations and trends in various fields, such as biotechnology, nanotechnology, robotics, and space exploration. The Future Theatre also featured interactive demonstrations and simulations, allowing the participants to experience the future firsthand .
The Dubai Business Forum served as a valuable platform for examining the profound impact of advanced technologies on businesses and the workforce. The event fostered a sense of urgency and collective responsibility to navigate the digital revolution effectively, ensuring that its transformative power benefits individuals, organizations, and societies as a whole.
The forum also showcased Dubai’s vision and leadership as a global hub for trade, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Dubai’s strategic location, world-class infrastructure, business-friendly environment, and diverse talent pool make it an ideal destination for investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals. The forum highlighted Dubai’s achievements and aspirations, as well as its readiness to embrace the opportunities and challenges of the future.