Dubai, UAE — Senior leadership from the United Arab Emirates convened with the head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) earlier this month to strategize on global financial fortitude and sustainable development. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, met with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva on the opening day of the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2026, held under the theme “Shaping Future Governments.”
The high-level meeting, which took place on February 3, 2026, served as a crucial platform to address the volatile global economy, rapid financial shifts, and increasing monetary complexity. Both parties emphasized the critical need for coordinated international action to maintain stability and foster long-term, inclusive growth across nations.
Collaborative Dialogue at the World Governments Summit
The discussion underscored strengthening cooperation between the UAE and the IMF, particularly in navigating complex financial and economic landscapes. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid stressed that robust international partnership is indispensable for mitigating current instabilities and addressing transformative changes shaping future economies.
In attendance were key members of the UAE government, highlighting the meeting’s significance. Distinguished attendees included Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai. Also present were Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, who is Chairman of the World Governments Summit Organisation, and Minister of State for Financial Affairs Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini.
Praising the UAE’s Role in Global Finance
Ms. Georgieva commended the UAE’s proactive stance in advocating for worldwide economic resilience. She acknowledged the essential nature of the partnership between the IMF and the UAE in managing global economic transitions and reinforcing confidence within the international financial architecture.
The IMF Director also lauded the World Governments Summit itself as a premier international venue for facilitating substantial dialogue on future challenges. The WGS 2026, running from February 3 to 5, is designed to offer a forward-looking perspective on major global transformations across critical sectors, providing insights on emerging opportunities and the evolving governance required for achieving sustainable growth.
Key Focus Areas of Discussion:
- Global Economic Developments: Analyzing current trends and forecasting potential shifts.
- Monetary and Financial Challenges: Addressing the complexity of modern financial systems.
- Enhancing UAE-IMF Cooperation: Developing joint strategies for economic stability.
- Fostering Sustainable Growth: Promoting policies that ensure inclusive economic benefits globally.
A Global Forum for Future Policy
The World Governments Summit has solidified its standing as a leading forum for constructive conversation among policymakers and thought leaders. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid noted that the summit is unparalleled in its capacity to exchange insights into future economic direction.
This year’s summit is a massive undertaking, bringing together more than 6,250 participants. The impressive roster includes over 60 current and former heads of state and government, more than 500 ministers, and official representatives from over 150 governments, alongside crucial decision-makers and global experts.
The collective commitment demonstrated by the UAE and the IMF signals a global priority: moving beyond reactive policy to strategic, coordinated governance that can preemptively address global financial shocks. By leveraging platforms like the WGS, policymakers aim to construct a more stable, equitable, and sustainable international economic system for the decades ahead. Readers interested in following the actionable outcomes from these high-level discussions will find updates on ongoing fiscal partnerships crucial for market stability.