Prof. Khalaf Al-Tahat

In an exceptional and unprecedented event, Dubai successfully concluded the 11th World Government Summit (WGS) last week, further cementing its position as a global leader in advancing government innovation and fostering international cooperation. The summit, which brought together over 30 heads of state and government, alongside 4,000 specialists from 140 governments and 85 international organizations, served as a premier platform for world leaders, policymakers, and intellectual pioneers to exchange knowledge and shape future governance strategies.

Organized by the UAE government, WGS has become a key driver of global dialogue, offering unique opportunities to discuss pressing global issues and explore innovative solutions. This year, the event featured more than 110 interactive and dialogue sessions covering critical topics such as effective governance, economic resilience, climate change, urban sustainability, global health challenges, and technological advancements. Through these discussions, the summit reaffirmed its role in influencing global policy and ensuring a sustainable future for upcoming generations.

The 2025 edition of the summit marked a new phase in government excellence, with six main themes: governance and responsibility, economic sustainability, urban resilience, human capital development, global health transformation, and emerging trends in artificial intelligence and sustainability-driven technologies. These themes reflect the core challenges facing modern governments and highlight the UAE’s commitment to driving forward-thinking policies and innovation.

Among the standout moments of the summit were key speeches and panel discussions featuring global leaders. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke about international cooperation in enhancing government efficiency, while tech visionary Elon Musk shared insights on the future of innovation and AI. Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), addressed global financial trends, and Mark Thompson, CEO of CNN Worldwide, discussed the evolving role of media in the digital age.

With 11 years of consecutive success, the World Government Summit has solidified its status as a leading global event shaping public policy and governance strategies. The UAE is pioneering approach in government administration and talent development was at the forefront, setting a global benchmark for effective governance.

This year’s summit reinforced the UAE’s ambitious vision of international cooperation, proving that collaboration among governments is essential for building a better and more sustainable future. As a result, UAE continues to stand out as a hub for forward-looking policies, providing a blueprint for how governments worldwide can address the challenges of the 21st century.

Prof. Khalaf Tahat- UAE University and Social Network Analyst