Arab Strategy Forum Explores Future Of Global Economic Relations And Investment Opportunities

The Arab Strategy Forum recently hosted two key discussions to help leaders understand global changes and develop future-focused strategies. The sessions, titled "Dubai and the Global Economy: A Map of Opportunities and Investment" and "The Global Trade War: Are the Rules of the Game Changing?" examined current economic and geopolitical landscapes amid rapid global shifts.

Distinguished figures attended, including Hessa Buhumaid, Director-General of the Community Development Authority in Dubai; Saeed Al Eter, Director-General of The Executive Office of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; Essa Kazim, Governor of the Dubai International Financial Centre; Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, Director-General of Dubai Chambers; Hesham Abdulla Al Qassim, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Emirates NBD; Major General Tamim Mohammed Al Muhairi, Director-General of the State Security Department in Dubai; Major General Awad Hader Al Muhairi, Deputy Director-General of the State Security Department in Dubai; Faisal bin Sulaitin, CEO of the Dubai Economic Security Center; Dr. Abdullah Busnad, Director-General of Dubai Customs; Hamed Ali, CEO of the Dubai Financial Market and Nasdaq Dubai; and Arif Amiri, CEO of the DIFC Authority. Global experts also participated alongside over 100 leaders and professionals.

The first session was led by journalist Cyba Audi Agha with Sultan bin Sulayem from DP World. They discussed how Dubai's adaptable economic model is crucial amid geopolitical changes. Bin Sulayem highlighted that thriving during crises requires readiness and resilient models. He stated that trade continuity is now a strategic necessity for market security and national stability.

Bin Sulayem emphasised long-term investments in infrastructure and supply chains. "Thanks to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, we realised early on that the key to future success lies in rapid market access. We invested in transport, connectivity, and technology to strengthen the ability of ports and free zones to respond to volatile global demand."

The second session featured Carla Sands from America First Policy Institute and Dr. Victor Gao from the Centre for China and Globalisation. Journalist Ryan Chilcote moderated their discussion on global trade's future amid geopolitical changes. Sands noted that international economic relations are at a pivotal point as trade tensions rise.

Sands stressed that successful alliances will be based on shared values rather than geography alone. "Global economic relations will no longer be dictated purely by power dynamics," she noted. "They will be redefined by those who hold a vision grounded in partnership, respect for sovereignty, and a long-term commitment to stability."

Future Economic Cooperation

Dr. Gao echoed this view by highlighting a shift towards economic multipolarity driven by emerging blocs aiming for decentralised decision-making. He described this as an opportunity for cooperation-based models rejecting dependency. Gao argued that technology, cross-border capital, and supply chains will shape future economies.

He emphasised reforming global institutions like IMF and WTO is urgent: "The IMF, the WTO, the World Bank… these institutions must reclaim their role as neutral balancers—not political instruments—and evolve in step with the changes rather than remain on the sidelines."

Forum's Role in Future Planning

The Forum aims to provide insights into political and economic issues using strategic foresight methods while analysing historical evidence to predict future events. Launched under His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's patronage in 2001, it focuses on understanding key geopolitical issues affecting both Arab regions and globally.

This platform brings together global leaders to discuss pressing issues with an aim to build a better world through understanding future trends regionally and internationally.

With inputs from WAM