Leading Figures Gather at the Mohammed bin Rashid Majlis for Leaders: Inspiring Summit Kicks Off Today

Dubai's annual leadership summit kicks off today, bringing together 1,000 top leaders from government and private sectors to discuss how to make Dubai the world's best city. The Mohammed bin Rashid Leadership Forum, held under the patronage of Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, focuses on building future leaders who can drive sustainable development across all sectors.

The event reflects Sheikh Mohammed's forward-thinking approach to leadership development. "This forum brings together more than 1,000 Dubai leaders alongside global experts under one roof," said Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Centre for Leadership Development. "It represents a core principle Sheikh Mohammed believes in: leadership is a continuous act of change and transformation."

Dubai doesn't rest on past achievements, Al Gergawi explained. The city constantly works on new transformations and bigger accomplishments. The forum serves as a powerful engine for these changes, preparing new leaders and enabling collective thinking that aligns with Dubai's priorities.

Five Leadership Councils Drive Different Sectors

The forum is organized around five specialized leadership councils, each tackling different aspects of Dubai's development strategy.

The Cultural and Media Identity Council, opened by Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, focuses on strengthening Dubai's cultural presence. It explores how heritage and innovation can work together to establish Dubai as a hub for cultural diversity and global creativity. Simon Anholt, founder of the Good Country Index, will speak about "The Story That Doesn't Need Telling."

Dubai's Economic Leadership Council, led by Helal Saeed Almarri from Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism, examines ways to boost the city's competitiveness as a global economic capital. The session includes discussions on "Economic Transformations in the Next Decade" and workshops on economic thinking.

Building Tomorrow's Smart Cities

The Future City Leadership Council takes on urban planning and infrastructure challenges. Mattar Al Tayer from Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority will open discussions on building human-centered smart cities. The council features Umberto Fogliano from MIT's Senseable City Lab, who will present "Future Cities Map: From Vision to Implementation."

Social cohesion gets attention through the Community Integration Council, headed by Hessa bint Eisa Buhumaid from Dubai's Community Development Authority. This group focuses on policies that ensure wellbeing for all community members. Andrew Tuck from Monocle magazine will discuss "Cities That Flourish with Humanity."

The Technology and Digital Leadership Council, starting with remarks from Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori of Dubai Digital Authority, tackles digital transformation and AI applications. It also covers cybersecurity and future services. Yury Maksimov, co-founder of Positive Technologies, will speak on "Technological and Digital Transformations in the Next Decade."

Global Experts Share Leadership Insights

The forum brings in international thought leaders to share practical wisdom. Dr. Tasha Eurich, a New York Times bestselling author and organizational psychologist, will lead a session called "How Does a Leader Start with Themselves First?" She'll also conduct a masterclass on "The Power of Awareness: A System for Speed, Excellence and Team Spirit."

Todd Henry, known for his leadership and management books, will discuss "How Do You Create a Leadership Impact That Lasts?" These sessions aim to give Dubai's leaders tools they can use right away in their organizations.

A key panel discussion will bring together top Dubai officials to explore "How to Achieve Sheikh Mohammed's Vision of Dubai as the World's Best City." Participants include Abdullah Mohammed Al Basti from Dubai's Executive Council, Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita from Dubai Municipality, and other department heads.

Another panel will examine Dubai's free trade philosophy, featuring prominent business leaders like Mohammed Alabbar, founder of Emaar and Noon, and Abdulaziz Abdullah Al Ghurair, chairman of Dubai Chambers.

The forum represents more than just networking. It's designed to create a roadmap for every leader in every sector, ensuring Dubai maintains its global leadership in sustainable development and positive transformation. The event also includes graduation ceremonies for participants in the Mohammed bin Rashid Centre for Leadership Development programs.

This gathering shows Dubai's commitment to continuous improvement and its belief that great cities are built by great leaders who never stop learning and adapting.