The zero day of the World Government Summit 2025 kicked off today, February 10, 2025, in Dubai, which will run until February 13 under the theme “Shaping the Governments of the Future”. The important event will feature various key forums, including the Arab Fiscal Forum, the Arab Young Leaders Meeting and the Young Arab Leaders Forum. Many prominent officials, eminent personalities, decision makers and international organizations will participate in the summit.

This 12th edition of the World Governments Summit is notable for its record international participation. It will host over 30 heads of state and government, more than 80 international and regional organizations, and 140 government delegations. Attendees will also include thought leaders and experts who will engage in discussions on major global trends during over 200 interactive sessions with more than 300 global speakers. Additionally, the summit will include over 30 ministerial meetings and roundtables attended by more than 400 ministers.

According to WAM, one of the highlights of Day Zero will be the 9th Arab Fiscal Forum, which is jointly organized by the Arab Monetary Fund (AMF), the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the Ministry of Finance. This forum will focus on developing efficient and equitable fiscal policies to address debt vulnerabilities and future challenges amid tighter financing constraints. Key topics will include subsidy reforms, tax administration, and reforms in public sector enterprises. Important speakers at the opening session will include Mohamed Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs in the UAE, Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, and Dr. Fahad Al Turki, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of the Arab Monetary Fund.

Other sessions during the Arab Fiscal Forum will involve discussions among Arab ministers of finance and governors of central banks about macroeconomic developments and their implications for fiscal positions. Topics will also cover options for fiscal policy design in light of mounting debt pressures, fiscal policy’s role in climate resilience, and revamping tax systems to accommodate significant structural economic changes.

Day Zero will also showcase the Arab Meeting for Young Leaders, which aims to foster collaboration between decision-makers and Arab youth. This meeting emphasizes extensive youth engagement throughout all phases, including preparation, implementation, attendance, and participation. It is hosted in collaboration with the Arab Youth Centre and supported by various governmental and non-governmental partners who believe in empowering the youth. Sessions will cover topics such as the Arab Youth Competitiveness Index, the Vision of the League of Arab States, and the Art of Etiquette from an Arab perspective.

The Young Arab Leaders Forum will take place on Day Zero, serving as a dynamic platform dedicated to empowering future Arab innovators and professionals. This forum will focus on promoting entrepreneurship, leadership, and professional growth through mentorship programs and educational initiatives. It will address topics like preparing young leaders for new challenges and discussing the economic state of the Arab world, including the status of Arab leaderships in various fields such as entrepreneurship, sports, arts, and culture.