UAE and Bahrain Lead in Tourism, Sports, and Governance

GULF SUMMIT 2025:The Supreme Council concluded its Forty-Sixth Session with a final statement highlighting key achievements and initiatives of its member states across governance, sports, culture, diplomacy, and international cooperation.

The Council congratulated the United Arab Emirates on the election of Her Excellency Ms. Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais as Secretary-General of the United Nations Tourism Organisation for 2026–2029, noting the UAE’s leadership in global tourism and the advancement of Arab women in international roles. It also expressed support for the UAE’s hosting of the United Nations Water Conference 2026 in partnership with Senegal, emphasizing its role in promoting Sustainable Development Goal 6.

The Council praised the UAE for the successful organisation of the 12th World Government Summit in February 2025, which focused on future governance, global economy, AI, sustainability, and international cooperation.

Turning to Bahrain, the Council welcomed the inauguration of the Bahrain International Commercial Court, highlighting the Kingdom’s efforts to strengthen its judicial system and attract global business. Bahrain was also congratulated for successfully hosting the 2025 Asian Youth Games, promoting peace, tolerance, and human coexistence, with GCC states achieving leading positions in the tournament.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia received recognition for the successful Hajj season and for winning the right to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The Council also congratulated Kuwait on hosting the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup and Bahrain for winning the championship title.

Oman was praised for hosting the 8th Indian Ocean Conference, while Qatar was acknowledged for its diplomatic efforts in the Doha Framework Agreement for Peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and for successfully hosting the FIFA U-17 World Cup, the Second World Summit on Social Development, and for its bid to host the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Lastly, the Council celebrated Kuwait for being named the Arab Capital of Culture and Media 2025, its hosting of the Third Arab–Chinese Summit in 2030, and for winning the right to host the 2026 Asian Men’s Handball Championship.

The Supreme Council’s statement reflected a commitment to regional collaboration, international diplomacy, sports excellence, and cultural leadership.