Photo Credit : WAM
The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) will organise the inaugural Al Ain Future Business Forum on 28 and 29 September 2026 at ADNEC Centre Al Ain.
Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region, the forum will bring together government officials, investors, business leaders and experts to explore opportunities supporting Al Ain’s long-term economic development.
Under the theme “Invest, Develop, Thrive”, the two-day event will focus on major growth areas, including agricultural technology, advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, smart transportation, sustainable tourism, higher education, research and development, and talent development.
Keynote speeches, presentations and interactive sessions will examine policies, infrastructure and investment programmes that could strengthen Al Ain’s contribution to Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification. Discussions will also cover access to capital, workforce requirements and ways to connect education and talent development with private-sector demand.
Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADDED, said the launch supports Abu Dhabi’s plans to build a more diversified, balanced, smart and sustainable economy.
He said the forum would provide a platform for stakeholders to develop new strategies, create jobs and unlock opportunities across high-growth industries. It would also help entrepreneurs, investors, businesses and skilled professionals collaborate within Al Ain’s expanding business ecosystem.
The event is designed to connect policy direction with practical investment and development opportunities. By bringing public-sector entities, private companies, investors and educational institutions together, ADDED aims to support business expansion and strengthen Al Ain’s position within Abu Dhabi’s evolving economy.
Al Ain has continued to attract investment across agriculture, tourism, higher education and advanced manufacturing. The number of new economic licences issued in the region rose by 58 percent during the first quarter of 2026 compared with the same period a year earlier. This followed annual growth of 29 percent in 2025.
Investment programmes supporting domestic and foreign direct investment will be presented during the forum, alongside information about available commercial opportunities and strategic projects in Al Ain.
The forum will be organised with the participation of several government and private-sector organisations. These include the Department of Municipalities and Transport, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Abu Dhabi Investment Office and the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development.
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank will participate as the forum’s Strategic Gateway Partner, while Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi Group will serve as its Economic Pillar Partner.
The programme will also examine how Al Ain can expand its role as a centre for research and development while preparing its workforce for emerging industries and future business needs.
