World Governments Summit reveals record international participation
The 12th edition of the World Governments Summit will take place in Dubai from 11th to 13th February 2025, under the theme 'Shaping Future Governments'. Record international participation, the largest in WGS history, is expected this year.
Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chairman of the World Governments Summit Organisation, stated that under the vision and guidance of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the World Government Summit has, over the past 12 years, become the world's largest and most influential forum for governments.
It is a highly anticipated annual gathering where global leaders convene to discuss, strategise, and shape the future, driving transformative change for the sustainable progress and prosperity of their societies.
Speaking at the World Governments Summit Dialogue, held today at the Museum of the Future in Dubai to address the key themes and latest additions to WGS, Al Gergawi said, 'The World Government Summit has achieved its prominent status through a unique and forward-thinking vision. This vision prioritises proactive future planning as the foundation of effective governance, focusing on empowering individuals and developing thriving communities. It champions international partnerships and collaboration as the most effective way to achieve common goals and ensure prosperity for all.'
Al Gergawi announced that this year's Summit will host over 30 heads of state and government, 80+ international organisations, 140 government delegations, and 6,000+ participants, including leading global experts. The expanded agenda features 21 global forums exploring future trends across 200+ interactive sessions, addressed by 300+ prominent figures. Over 30 ministerial meetings and roundtables will convene 400+ ministers, culminating in the release of 30 strategic reports developed with the Summit's international knowledge partners.
Al Gergawi announced the participation of several world leaders, including Prabowo Subianto, President of the Republic of Indonesia; Andrzej Duda, President of the Republic of Poland; Anura Kumara Dissanayake, President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka; Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, President of the Republic of Colombia; Bernardo Arévalo, President of the Republic of Guatemala; Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait; Nikol Pashinyan, Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia; Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda; Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan; Musalia Mudavadi, Prime Minister of the Republic of Kenya; Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh, Prime Minister of the Government of National Unity of the State of Libya; Irakli Garibashvili, Prime Minister of Georgia; Mohammad Younus, Chief Advisor of the Interim Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh.
Al Gergawi explained that the summit has become a leading platform for forward-thinking, convening leaders, experts, entrepreneurs, and innovators to explore future trends and collaboratively address humanity's challenges.
The summit will feature dialogues with heads of international organisations, including Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund; Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union; Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency; Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States; Haitham Al Ghais, Secretary-General of OPEC; and Jasem Albudaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council.
The summit will also welcome leaders from key global sectors, including prominent figures from the artificial intelligence, energy, transportation, tourism, finance, and media industries. Participants include Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google; Joseph Tsai, Chairman of Alibaba Group; Michael Miebach, CEO of Mastercard; Almar Latour, CEO of Dow Jones; Pascal Soriot, CEO of AstraZeneca; David Baszucki, Co-founder and CEO of Roblox; and Larry Ellison, Co-founder, Chairman, and CTO of Oracle, among others.
The World Government Summit is setting record-breaking participation in its latest edition, both in terms of scale and diversity. Attendance has increased by over 50 percent compared to last year, representing the largest gathering in the Summit's history, with delegates from every continent and a wide range of sectors. The summit aims to be a unifying platform for governments worldwide, fostering economic, social, and governmental progress towards equitable development for all.
Distinguished attendees include President Andry Nirina Rajoelina of Madagascar, President José Ramos-Horta of Timor-Leste, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele of the Solomon Islands, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan, Prime Minister Ahmad Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah of Kuwait, Prime Minister Abdel Hamid Dbeibeh of Libya, and Prime Minister Masrour Barzani of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. This diverse representation underscores the summit's commitment to global collaboration and inclusive development.
The summit's record participation extends to leaders from key global sectors, including technology, health, media, aviation, transportation, and tourism. These leaders will participate in extensive discussions aimed at identifying opportunities and developing innovative solutions to accelerate growth within their respective sectors.
The summit also welcomes leaders from prominent international organisations, including Dr. Fahad AlTurki, Director General and Chairman of the Board of the Arab Monetary Fund; Dr. Abdulhamid Alkhalifa, Director-General of the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID); Odile Renaud-Basso, President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi. Their presence highlights the summit's focus on addressing global challenges and fostering collaborative solutions.
Additionally, CEOs of major global technology companies and leaders of influential companies in the health sector will contribute to the discussions.
The World Government Summit's latest edition focuses on six key themes: Effective Governance and Accountability; Financing the Future and the Global Economy; Climate, Crisis Mitigation, and Resilient Cities; Human-centric Futures and Capacity Building; Global Health Transformations; and Emerging Frontiers and the Future.
The summit's agenda features 21 forums covering these themes, bringing together ministers, government officials, and sector leaders. These forums include: the Future of Mobility Forum; the Artificial Intelligence Forum; the Government Services Forum; the Future of Education Forum; the Government Experience Exchange Forum; the Future of Work Forum; the Emerging Economies Forum; the SDGs in Action Forum; the Arab Public Administration Forum and the Zero Bureaucracy Forum among others. The pre-summit day features the Arab Meeting for Young Leaders and the Arab Fiscal Forum.
Several ministerial meetings and high-level gatherings will take place during the summit, including the Arab Government Administration Forum Ministerial Meeting, the Arab Youth Ministers Meeting, the GCC Labour Ministers Meeting, a high-level meeting between Latin American and MENA countries on future investment, ministerial meetings on digital justice and COP29, the ICAO Council meeting, and the Latin American Administrative Development Organisation Council meeting. Numerous roundtable discussions will address topics such as AI, development cooperation, emerging economies, government communication, family businesses, and tourism.
The summit will also host the annual gathering of TIME100's most influential people in AI. Through this comprehensive agenda of forums, meetings, and discussions, the summit aims to provide a roadmap for governments to navigate rapid transformations, anticipate future opportunities and challenges, and foster international partnerships for sustainable development and prosperity.
The World Government Summit, in its latest edition, provides a clear roadmap for governments to navigate the rapid transformations occurring across key sectors. Through a comprehensive agenda that anticipates future opportunities and key challenges, the summit facilitates extensive dialogue to develop innovative solutions and best practices. This exchange of knowledge and expertise fosters international partnerships to maximise opportunities for sustainable development and societal prosperity.
Further solidifying its global influence, the World Government Summit will launch 30 strategic reports across various sectors. These reports, developed in collaboration with leading think tanks and research institutions, will offer key indicators, models, and innovative solutions to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals, enhance government preparedness and resilience, and foster greater international cooperation.
The summit will also present several prestigious global awards recognising exceptional contributions to building a better future. These include the Best Minister in the World Award (in partnership with PwC), the Creative Government Innovations Award, the Global Award for Best Government Applications, the Global Government Excellence Award, and the Best Teacher in the World Award (in partnership with the Varkey Foundation).
Finally, the summit will launch the Global Ministers Survey, inviting ministers worldwide to share their insights on critical global issues and contribute to collaborative solutions.
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It included a collection of photographs from His Highness's visits to several world capitals, as well as rare images of him using the railway network in the United Kingdom, where the idea of constructing a similar project in Dubai was conceived. Exceptional Growth His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid was briefed by Al Tayer on the expansion of metro services, including the growth in ridership, station design, number of stations, and train carriages. The Dubai Metro has transported over 2.527 billion passengers from its launch on 9/9/2009 through the end of 2024. The Metro recorded a daily average of 900,000 passengers in has grown steadily over the years, from 38.887 million in 2010 to 69 million in 2011, reflecting a growth rate of 77%. It continued to rise to over 109 million passengers in 2012, before surpassing 200 million in 2017, jumping to 260 million in 2023 and hitting 275.4 million in to studies, the number of Dubai Metro passengers is expected to exceed 300 million in 2026 and reach 320 million by 2031. His Highness was also briefed on the expansion of metro stations. The service began in 2009 with 10 stations, reaching 26 stations in 2010 and growing to 46 stations in 2011. By 2014, the Dubai Tram started operations, and the number of metro and tram stations soared to 56. In 2021, the launch of the Metro's Route 2020 added seven more stations, raising the total to 64. The upcoming Blue Line will add 14 new stations to the network, which will bring the total number to Highness was also briefed on the growth in the number of trains, which rose from 16 at the Metro's launch in 2009 to 44 in 2010. The figure reached 79 trains by 2011 and increased to 90 with the inauguration of the Dubai Tram in 2014, further expanding to 140 by 2021. With the Blue Line coming into operation, the total number of trains will increase to 168, comprising 157 Metro trains and 11 Tram Highness also reviewed the evolution of both the interior and exterior designs of metro stations. The exterior design of the elevated stations was inspired by the shape of a seashell, alongside the distinctive iconic architecture of Expo and Emaar Properties stations. The interior design of the stations reflects seven thematic models: Heritage, Earth, Air, Fire, and Water, in addition to unique design elements developed specifically for Expo and Emaar Properties stations. One Million People His Highness received a further briefing from Al Tayer on the Dubai Metro Blue Line, which links the Green Line at Creek Station, and the Red Line at Centrepoint Station. The line serves residential and academic zones, as well as key development projects, with an estimated population of one million by 2040. It also connects to the Dubai Silicon Oasis - one of the urban centres outlined in the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan - a hub for innovation and knowledge that supports the growth of the technology-driven economy and attracts skilled and creative Tayer stated: 'The Blue Line comprises two main routes. The first runs from Creek Interchange Station on the Green Line, located in Al Jaddaf, passing through Dubai Festival City, Dubai Creek Harbour, and Ras Al Khor, before reaching International City 1, which includes an underground interchange station. The route continues towards International City 2 and 3, extending to Dubai Silicon Oasis and up to Academic City. This section spans 21 km and connects 10 stations.''The second route of the Blue Line starts from Centrepoint Interchange Station on the Red Line in Al Rashidiya. It passes through Mirdif and Al Warqa, concluding at International City 1 Interchange Station. This route measures 9 km in length and links four stations. The project also includes the construction of a metro depot at Al Ruwayah 3,' said Al Highness watched a film highlighting the Dubai Metro Blue Line project, which links the red and green lines of the Dubai Metro and serves economic, academic, tourism, and residential areas expected to house one million people by 2040. It connects these areas with direct journeys to Dubai International Airport in just 20 minutes. It also supports the goals of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan by extending metro services to the fifth urban centre and contributing to a 20% reduction in traffic congestion along the roads served by the Blue Line. Iconic Station His Highness paused at the imposing large-scale model of the iconic Emaar Properties Station, where he was briefed by His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer on the highest metro station in the world, with a height of 74 metres. A new urban landmark, the new station complements Dubai's iconic infrastructure and embodies the emirate's vision to serve as a gateway to the future. It forms a striking visual presence that harmonises with the surrounding urban landscape, elevating the concept of placemaking and positioning the station as a primary destination for Blue Line users. The station also offers integrated commercial and investment an area of 11,000 square metres, the station is designed to handle up to 160,000 passengers, with more than 70,000 expected to use it daily once operational. It will serve the estimated 40,000 residents of Dubai Creek Harbour, in addition to arrival, passengers are greeted by a majestic architectural structure standing 74 metres tall and 38 metres wide, offering an immersive spatial experience from the moment they enter or disembark. The station's exterior features a towering facade that harmonises with the area's architectural identity. A central gateway allows natural light to flood down to the platform level, creating a bright and welcoming space during the day. Sunlight reflects off the stone surfaces, underscoring the station's timeless elegance. By night, it transforms into a radiant beacon that guides travellers, with a carefully planned lighting strategy that enhances its architectural character and reaffirms its role as a gateway to Dubai's bright future. Interior Design The interior design of the station is curated to create a sense of luxury. Towering walls rise elegantly, finished in natural textures and warm, earthy tones that strengthen the connection to the land, reflect the spirit of place, and embody the community's resilience and cohesion. The overall architectural language creates a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all material palette features premium, durable finishes such as Jura limestone and bronze metal wall panels at the platform level, complemented by robust granite flooring. At both the lobby and platform levels, glass ceiling panels allow natural light to permeate the space, enhancing the feeling of openness and elevating the overall passenger experience. The combination of natural stone and polished metal creates a balance between elegance and sophistication, giving the station a distinctive character that unites tradition with station's construction materials were meticulously chosen to reflect a blend of heritage and modernity, incorporating stone, glass, and bronze, forming a symbol of Dubai's continuous pursuit of progress. Its dynamic form and architectural scale create a distinctive visual presence. Sustainability, longevity, and resilience to operational and climatic conditions were central to the selection process, supporting the station's ambition to meet the highest standards of environmental efficiency. Naming Rights During the ceremony, it was announced that Emaar had secured the naming rights for the iconic Emaar Properties Station for ten years, starting from its official inauguration in 2029. The next phase will include announcements regarding naming rights for other stations along the Blue the conclusion of the event, His Highness joined the team overseeing the Blue Line project for a commemorative photo. The team included RTA staff members, the contractor consortium, and project consultants. The World's Best City The Blue Line consists of 14 stations, including three interchange stations at Al Jaddaf, Al Rashidiya and International City 1, as well as an iconic station in Dubai Creek Harbour. By 2040, daily ridership on the Blue Line is projected to reach 320,000 passengers. It marks the first Dubai Metro line to cross Dubai Creek on a 1,300-metre-long Blue Line connects and integrates the existing red and green lines, supporting the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, aimed at transforming Dubai into the world's best city to live in by offering sustainable and soft mass transit solutions. These solutions are designed to facilitate the mobility of both residents and visitors, promoting well-being and enhancing Dubai's global competitiveness as a leading destination for hosting international events. Additionally, they align with the aspirations of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to create a '20-minute city.' This innovative concept ensures that more than 80% of essential services are within a 20-minute travel time for residents, fostering a Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) new line offers direct connectivity between Dubai International Airport and nine key areas, including Mirdif, Al Warqa, International City 1 and 2, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Academic City, Ras Al Khor Industrial Area, Dubai Creek Harbour, and Dubai Festival City. Travel time along the route is expected to range between 10 and 25 minutes. Key Elements of the Blue Line The Dubai Metro Blue Line features 14 stations, including three interchange stations: Creek Station at Al Jaddaf on the Green Line, Centrepoint Station at Al Rashidiya on the Red Line, and International City 1 Station on the Blue Line, in addition to the iconic station located in Dubai Creek Harbour. The line includes nine elevated stations and five underground line has all the features of an integrated transport system, including public bus bays, taxi stands, dedicated areas for bike and electric scooter racks, and parking spaces for People of maximum capacity of the Dubai Metro Blue Line exceeds 850,000 passengers per day, based on the scale of the stations included within the project scope. Passenger numbers are expected to reach 200,000 per day by 2030, rising to 320,000 per day by 2040. 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The line is also home to the largest underground interchange station in the network, spanning over 44,000 square metres with a projected capacity of 350,000 passengers per day. Notably, the Blue Line is the first transport project in Dubai to fully comply with green building standards, achieving Platinum Category certification. 50,000 University Students The Dubai Metro Blue Line was meticulously planned with sustainability in mind, ensuring it connects existing and future high population densities, estimated to reach around one million residents by 2040. Key areas served by the Blue Line include Dubai Creek Harbour and Dubai Festival City, noted for their immense development potential, as well as International City, home to Dragon Mart and large residential complexes visited by over 200,000 residents and visitors. It also serves residential neighbourhoods like Al Rashidiya, Al Warqaa, and Mirdif. 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The total anticipated benefits will exceed Dh56.5 billion by 2040. These benefits include substantial savings in time and fuel, reduced accident-related fatalities, and lower carbon Blue Line is also expected to decrease traffic congestion on its served routes by 20% and appreciate the value of land and properties near stations by up to 25%. The Blue Line also provides a direct connection between Dubai International Airport and nine key areas situated along its route. It connects with the fifth urban centre, Dubai Silicon Oasis Centre, ensuring that all major urban centres in Dubai are seamlessly connected by metro lines. Backbone of Transportation System The endorsement of the Dubai Metro Blue Line signifies a major milestone, building upon the huge success the Dubai Metro has achieved since its inauguration on 9/9/2009. The Metro has emerged as the backbone of Dubai's transportation network, becoming the preferred mode of travel for both residents and visitors. It represents nearly 60% of total usage across all public transportation modes in Dubai, which include buses, the Dubai Tram, and marine the start of operations until the end of 2024, the Dubai Metro has transported 2.527 billion passengers. In 2024, the Metro averaged over 900,000 passengers daily. The Dubai Metro has also recorded great success in upholding the highest international safety standards and operational efficiency, boasting a 99.7% punctuality Dubai Metro played a pivotal role in boosting Dubai's competitiveness for hosting major international events, including the hosting of Expo 2020 Dubai. This event coincided with the launch of the Dubai Metro Route 2020, a 15 km extension featuring seven new stations. It has also contributed to stimulating economic growth, boosting tourism, and appreciating the value of properties located near metro stations. Global Standing Dubai Metro maintains its global position with a current total length of 90 km. 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