Bahrain Engages Global Leaders at World Economic Forum 2026

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Davos: he 56th World Economic Forum Annual Meeting is underway from January 19–23, 2026, under the theme “A Spirit of Dialogue,” drawing a record number of global leaders to address pressing economic, technological, and geopolitical challenges. Close to 3,000 participants from over 130 countries are attending, including around 400 senior political figures, nearly 65 heads of state and government, 850 CEOs, and key innovators across sectors.

 On behalf of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Minister of the Prime Minister’s Court, is leading a high-level Bahraini delegation to this year’s Forum. The delegation includes senior national leaders driving Bahrain’s economic and development priorities:

His Excellency Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy and Chairman of Mumtalakat Holding Company

Her Excellency Noor bint Ali Al Khalif, Minister of Sustainable Development and CEO of the Bahrain Economic Development Board

His Excellency Abdullah bin Adel Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce. alongside other key officials from government and economic sectors.

 During the Forum, His Highness Shaikh Isa visited the United Arab Emirates Pavilion in Davos, where he met senior UAE officials including Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The discussions highlighted the strong and multi-faceted partnership between Bahrain and the UAE, with a focus on expanding economic cooperation, sustainable development, governance innovation, and exchange of best practices.

 WEF 2026 is convening against a complex backdrop of geopolitical tension, economic shift, and rapid technological change. Leaders from around the world, including heads of state and major CEOs, are engaging in high-level discussions spanning global cooperation, artificial intelligence, trade policy, and climate resilience.

 Notably, French President Emmanuel Macron warned of a global drift away from shared rules and international norms, underscoring rising geopolitical instability.

Other sessions have focused on how innovation, especially in AI, can be harnessed responsibly, balancing economic opportunity with social impact.

 Political tensions have also surfaced on key global issues, including trade disputes and geopolitical rivalries, illustrating the Forum’s role as both a platform for collaboration and a venue for candid debate among world leaders.

 With over 200 sessions livestreamed and a diverse agenda from economic cooperation to sustainability challenges, WEF 2026 continues to spotlight the urgent need for cross-sector dialogue and partnership in a rapidly evolving global landscape.