Abu Dhabi To Host The Understanding Risk Global Forum 2026 For Disaster Management Innovations

The Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre Abu Dhabi (ADCMC) has announced that Abu Dhabi will host the 9th Understanding Risk Global Forum in 2026. This event is organised with the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR) of the World Bank. The forum serves as a key platform for collaboration and innovation in disaster risk management.

The partnership between ADCMC and GFDRR was formalised at a signing event in Abu Dhabi. Matar Saeed Al Nuaimi, Director-General of ADCMC, and Ousmane Dione, World Bank Vice President for the Middle East & North Africa, Afghanistan & Pakistan, were present. This collaboration aims to enhance global efforts in disaster risk reduction.

The Understanding Risk Global Forum is an esteemed international gathering. It brings together decision-makers, experts, researchers, and civil society representatives worldwide. The forum provides a platform to discuss strategies for understanding growing risks to societies, economies, and infrastructure. It also promotes preparedness through innovative solutions and cross-border cooperation.

More than 1,500 experts are expected to attend #UR26. Participants will include representatives from public and private sectors, international organisations, and academic institutions. Key topics will cover climate resilience, new technologies like artificial intelligence for disaster management, risk communication, and disaster risk financing.

Matar Saeed Al Nuaimi highlighted that hosting UR26 marks a significant milestone for Abu Dhabi. It strengthens its position as a hub for preparedness and proactive response. He stated that this achievement reflects international confidence in Abu Dhabi’s role as a key partner in global disaster risk reduction efforts.

Al Nuaimi said: "The Global Forum is a strategic opportunity to reinforce international partnerships and exchange expertise with institutions and specialists worldwide." He emphasised leveraging advancements in artificial intelligence and data analytics to support informed decision-making.

World Bank's Commitment to Resilience

Ousmane Dione expressed enthusiasm about the partnership on UR26. He noted that it would bolster global collaboration on disaster risk management while showcasing Abu Dhabi’s leadership in innovation. "We are delighted to welcome the Understanding Risk Global Forum to Abu Dhabi," he said.

Dione added that investing in resilience is crucial for safeguarding lives and livelihoods. The World Bank invests over US$7.5 billion annually to help countries anticipate shocks, respond quickly, and recover effectively.

Forum's Impact on Future Challenges

The five-day forum will occur at the ADNEC Centre from 19 to 23 October 2026. It will feature panel discussions, interactive workshops, and exhibitions highlighting global innovations in disaster risk management.

Hosting UR26 underscores ADCMC's advanced role in leading international dialogue on forecasting tools development. It reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to proactive approaches grounded in science, technology, and international cooperation.

The forum embodies a shared vision of building a more prepared world by uniting efforts to understand risks better. It aims to enhance societal resilience against future challenges through knowledge exchange.

With inputs from WAM