Abu Dhabi Hosts Global Sovereign Wealth Fund Forum Under Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed's Patronage

Abu Dhabi is hosting the International Forum of Sovereign Wealth Funds annual meeting for the first time, bringing together leaders managing over $10 trillion in assets. The three-day event, running from October 29-31, marks a significant milestone for the emirate as it establishes itself as a major hub for global investment dialogue and cooperation.

The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority and Mubadala Investment Company are jointly hosting the gathering under the patronage of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. The forum will take place at Abu Dhabi Global Market on Al Maryah Island.

This year's meeting carries the theme "Building Resilience in an Era of Transformation," reflecting the challenges sovereign wealth funds face in today's volatile global environment. The forum brings together 37 sovereign funds from 35 member countries, plus seven additional sovereign investment institutions participating as observers.

**The scale is massive**. These funds collectively represent about 80% of all sovereign wealth fund assets worldwide. CEOs and senior officials from the world's largest sovereign wealth funds will spend three days discussing how to navigate global market fluctuations and explore investment opportunities in emerging technologies.

The International Forum of Sovereign Wealth Funds was established in 2009 and has grown into the primary platform for sovereign wealth fund cooperation. The organization focuses on promoting good governance, accountability, and responsible investment practices among its members.

Abu Dhabi's selection as host reflects the international confidence in the emirate's financial sector. The city has been positioning itself as a central destination for sovereign wealth funds to exchange expertise and develop shared visions for sustainable development.

**Here's what makes this gathering important**: Sovereign wealth funds have become crucial players in directing capital responsibly while achieving financial returns and building a better future for coming generations. These institutions often serve as stabilizers during market turbulence and major drivers of long-term investment.

Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Managing Director of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, emphasized his organization's role in establishing the Santiago Principles - a set of guidelines that govern sovereign wealth fund operations. "Since its establishment, the International Forum of Sovereign Wealth Funds has enhanced and highlighted the role that sovereign wealth funds play in financial markets, contributing to strengthening cross-border investment flows," he said.

Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Managing Director and Group CEO of Mubadala Investment Company, stressed the importance of responsible investing. "Responsible investment, for us, means deploying capital thoughtfully and collaborating with partners to achieve sustainable value," he noted.

The timing is significant. Sovereign wealth funds are facing pressure to lead their operations responsibly while maintaining clear vision and convictions. Global economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and technological disruption are forcing these massive investment vehicles to adapt their strategies.

Obaid Amran, Chairman of the International Forum of Sovereign Wealth Funds, highlighted the forum's role in enabling funds to meet and exchange insights. "Sovereign wealth funds play a pivotal role in facing transformations and developing flexible frameworks that achieve sustainable long-term value," he said.

The Abu Dhabi meeting will provide a platform for participating delegations to explore joint work opportunities and examine how sovereign wealth funds can respond to global fluctuations. Participants will also look at investment opportunities in transformative technologies that could support long-term sustainable growth.

This gathering comes at a time when sovereign wealth funds are increasingly important to global financial stability. Their decisions can influence markets worldwide, making their coordination and responsible practices essential for international economic health.