In Partnership With Abu Dhabi Department Of Economic Development: 2nd Reuters NEXT Gulf Summit to Take Place in Emirate
In partnership with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), the second edition of the Reuters NEXT Gulf will be held on 21 October, 2026, returning to Abu Dhabi following the successful inaugural event in 2025.
A Growing Global Conversation
Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADDED, emphasized Abu Dhabi’s role as a powerful convener for global economic discussions:
"Abu Dhabi is a powerful convener of leaders… innovators, senior executives, and media. Such gatherings enable the dialogue and partnerships needed to drive investment and economic growth in a rapidly changing world."
Building on Success
The return of Reuters NEXT Gulf highlights Abu Dhabi’s growing influence in shaping global economic conversations. As the emirate advances its long-term economic transformation agenda, forums like Reuters NEXT Gulf provide a crucial platform for:
- Exchanging ideas
- Strengthening partnerships
- Exploring opportunities that will define global growth
Unfiltered Access to Global Leaders
Josh London, Head of Reuters Professional, highlighted the summit’s significance in 2026:
"In 2025, we brought Reuters NEXT to the Gulf because the region’s trajectory demands a summit equal to its ambition. In 2026, that case is even stronger."
A Successful Debut in 2025
The first edition of Reuters NEXT Gulf in 2025 was a success, convening over 600 senior executives from 40+ countries and reaching 2 million viewers worldwide via livestream. The summit featured 30+ elite speakers addressing six core themes:
- Geopolitics
- Economy & Markets
- Banking & Finance
- Technology & AI
- Climate & Sustainability
- Corporate Leadership
Speakers from 2025 included notable figures like Dr Anwar Mohammed Gargash, UAE Advisor to the President, and Dr Rania Al-Mashat, Egypt’s Minister of Planning, Economic Development & International Cooperation.