World Governments Summit 2026 opens in Dubai with call for ‘proactive leadership’ in AI age

The World Governments Summit (WGS) 2026 officially launched on Tuesday at Madinat Jumeirah, marking the largest leadership gathering in the event’s history with a clear mandate: governments must lead change rather than merely react to it.

The three-day summit, held under the theme “Shaping Future Governments,” opened with a high-level presence from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai. The event has convened more than 35 heads of state and 150 government delegations to address the rapid “comprehensive reshaping” of traditional global systems.

In a powerful opening address, Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chairman of the WGS, set the tone for the 2026 edition by emphasising the urgency of the current technological shift.

“The world today is not merely undergoing transient transformations, but is witnessing a comprehensive reshaping of traditional systems,” Al Gergawi stated. “In facing the challenges of this new global era, governments need greater agility and must not rely on waiting or merely reacting.”

The opening day featured the start of 24 specialised forums, with immediate focus shifting toward the “AI Governance and Digital Transformation” initiative. Discussions among ministers and global CEOs highlighted “Zero Bureaucracy” as a primary target for 2026, aiming to utilise generative AI to eliminate administrative red tape and enhance societal wellbeing.

Parallel to the main plenary sessions, the first day also hosted the Arab Meeting for Young Leaders and the Young Scientists Forum, reflecting the summit’s 2026 focus on human capital and “future horizons.”

Running through February 5, the summit is expected to produce 36 strategic reports in collaboration with global knowledge partners, intended to serve as a roadmap for policy innovation in an increasingly fragmented geopolitical landscape.