Hili Forum 2026 Concludes With 1,600 Participants Advancing Gulf Security Dialogue
Umer Jamshaid
Published September 08, 2026 | 10:45 PM
ABU DHABI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM – 08th Sep, 2026) The third edition of Hili Forum 2026 concluded today in Abu Dhabi, marking the end of two days of discussions jointly organised by the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR) and the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA).
Held under the theme, “Gulf at Crossroads: Conflict, Consequences and Course Correction,” the Forum convened more than 1,600 attendees, including decision-makers, senior officials, diplomats, academics, and international experts. Over 75 speakers from 35 countries participated in discussions across the two-day programme, addressing key issues spanning regional security, economic resilience, geopolitical shifts, and emerging technologies.
The Forum’s second day focused on the geotechnology pillar, with discussions exploring how data, drones, and digital technologies are reshaping global power dynamics and their implications for security, the economy, and international relations.
The day opened with a keynote address by Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, who stated:
"The Hili Forum has become one of the region’s most important platforms for navigating the geopolitical shifts shaping our collective future. The UAE has consistently demonstrated its ability to turn global challenges into strategic opportunities, diversifying trade and logistics routes, accelerating infrastructure development, and investing in the technologies and industries of tomorrow. Our vision for growth remains clear. We will continue to expand our network of trade and investment partnerships, support the smooth flow of global commerce, and strengthen the UAE‘s role as a vital bridge between continents."
Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Dhaheri, Deputy Director General of the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, remarked:
“The participants’ active engagement enriched the Forum’s discussions through the diverse questions, ideas, and perspectives they brought forward. The concurrent sessions also created opportunities for direct engagement with policymakers and experts on the issues shaping the future of the Gulf and the wider world. These interactions strengthened knowledge exchange and helped build valuable professional and intellectual connections. They also underscored the importance of Hili Forum as an open platform for dialogue, learning, and knowledge exchange, contributing to a deeper understanding of today’s challenges and helping to anticipate future opportunities."
Dr. Ebtesam Al Teneiji, Deputy Director General of the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research, added:
“Hili Forum convened this year at a time of accelerating transformation, making questions surrounding the Gulf’s security, economy, and international relations more pressing than ever. What distinguished the Forum was that it went beyond simulations and hypothetical scenarios, engaging directly with real-world challenges and exploring practical solutions.”
