The United Arab Emirates demonstrates its global commitment through investment, innovation and cooperation at the Davos Forum

1. Economic growth and macroeconomic context
2. Strategies and priorities in Davos 2026
3. Technology, innovation and global goals
4. International commitments and foreign policy
5. Pavilion and private sector

The United Arab Emirates is present in Davos for the Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum with one of the largest and most diverse delegations at the event, which is being held from 19 to 23 January.

This reflects the Emirati ambition to show the rest of the world its ability to be a leading player in discussions on the global economy and development, especially at this time of great geopolitical and economic uncertainty.

The Emirati delegation, with more than 100 people including ministers, senior government officials and private sector leaders, is led by Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who chairs the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority.

As every year, this Forum is a vitally important platform for cooperation between countries, coordinating policies and planning the economy in the long term.

Economic growth and macroeconomic context

In 2025, the economy of the United Arab Emirates continued to grow at a solid pace. It is estimated that this was close to five basis points, well above the average for the major global powers.

This growth was thanks to both the oil sector, due to high production, and the non-oil sector. Growth has been driven by the manufacturing industry, financial services, construction and foreign trade.

In turn, the non-oil sector had a large share of gross domestic product, showing how the UAE has diversified its economy in recent years. In the first half of 2025, the Emirates' foreign trade grew by nearly 24%, which helped improve trade relations with important markets such as Switzerland, India and the United States.

The labour market also performed exceptionally well, with unemployment very low at almost 2%. This, combined with moderate inflation, which remained at 2% or even below, helped to keep the country's economy stable. Bank deposits and loans also grew, meaning that the financial sector is strong and enjoys the confidence of large investors.

The United Arab Emirates has received record amounts of foreign direct investment. So much so that it is currently one of the countries that receives the most capital, especially in the infrastructure, technology and clean energy sectors. The current economic climate has made the country a key location for big business and investment in the Middle East.

Strategies and priorities in Davos 2026

The fact that the UAE has the fifth largest delegation shows the state's commitment to the markets that will shape the future, such as artificial intelligence, the whole issue of digital transformation, cutting-edge technologies and, above all, collaboration between the government and private companies.

These developments fit perfectly with the country's economic policies, which seek to improve the competitiveness of the economy, deepen international relations and consolidate the UAE as a global hub for trade, investment and innovation.

The Minister of Cabinet Affairs, Mohammad bin Abdullah al-Gergawi, said that the UAE is going to Davos to show its real commitment to international cooperation. He also said that the UAE is placing great emphasis on the areas most important to its economy and on new sectors that will bring growth in the future. ‘For us, dialogue is key to international relations and how we communicate between countries,’ he concluded.

For Emirati policy, dialogue is the cornerstone of relations with other countries, as it is the best way to address global issues such as climate change.

Technology, innovation and global goals

Technology and artificial intelligence will be very important on the agenda of the United Arab Emirates.

The delegation will contribute to conferences on smart regulation and how advanced technologies can improve public services and the country's economy.

Through their officials, the Emiratis will show how AI and good data management can drive sustainable development, attract more investment and improve our lives.

This balanced approach reflects a broader strategy that combines economic growth with social stability and global responsibility, positioning the UAE as a reliable international partner in a volatile world.

International commitments and foreign policy

The UAE's presence in Davos is part of a foreign policy that seeks to strengthen strategic alliances and trade agreements in different parts of the world. By 2025, the country had fully immersed itself in international projects; for example, it joined the United States in key programmes on artificial intelligence and semiconductors.

The idea is clear: to stop relying so heavily on hydrocarbons and start playing a stronger role in technology chains around the world.

To this end, they are expanding their CEPA economic agreements with countries in Europe, Oceania and Africa. This idea of having multiple orientations helps, on the one hand, to be less exposed if there are major problems between countries and, on the other, to open the doors more to investment and technology exchange.

Pavilion and private sector

For the fourth year, the UAE Pavilion in Davos, with its slogan ‘The impossible is impossible,’ once again showcases the true magnitude of the Emirati economy. Here you can see the breadth of what is being done, from energy to finance, industry, technology and the entire digital economy.

The programme includes high-level sessions, meetings and media activities, all designed to showcase the success stories of the Emirates. It also seeks to form alliances and find solutions to common problems, such as the energy transition.