ADFD Showcases Global Development Role at WGS 2026

Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) participated in the World Government Summit (WGS) 2026, held in Dubai under the theme “Shaping Future Governments,” alongside wide international participation.

The summit brought together heads of government, ministers, senior officials, global experts, and decision-makers from around the world, serving as a high-level platform to exchange insights on the future of development, strengthen international partnerships, and present innovative financing solutions to address accelerating global economic challenges.

On the sidelines of the summit, His Excellency Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD and Chairman of the Export Executive Committee of Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX), said that the Fund’s long-standing partnership with the World Government Summit represents a leading model of strategic cooperation in anticipating future government priorities.

“Over more than a decade, this partnership has helped establish advanced frameworks for constructive collaboration, strengthening integration with local and international partners and reinforcing a development approach based on partnership, innovation, and sustainability,” he said.

Al Suwaidi added that ADFD’s participation in WGS 2026 further enhanced its economic and development presence, highlighting the Fund’s extensive experience in creating investment opportunities that support economic and social stability in beneficiary countries. He noted that the Fund also plays a strategic role in supporting the UAE’s national economy by promoting exports and enabling Emirati companies to expand confidently into global markets.

Key Engagements and Agreements

During the summit, ADFD took part in several high-level events focused on the future of development and innovative financing tools.

At the XDGs 2045 Ministerial Roundtable for the “Sustainable Development Goals 2045” initiative, Al Suwaidi reaffirmed the Fund’s commitment to supporting strategic development and international cooperation, stressing the importance of flexible financing models that can adapt to rapid global changes.

ADFD also participated in the High-Level Investment Forum for Latin America and the Caribbean, where Rashed Mohammed Al Kaabi, Acting Deputy Director-General of ADFD, highlighted key initiatives. These included financing renewable energy projects in Caribbean island states, the Abu Dhabi Global Water Platform to enhance water security, and the Artificial Intelligence for Development initiative in Africa.

In a global dialogue session titled “How Governments Deliver Growth, Trust and Results Under Challenge,” Al Suwaidi discussed strengthening international partnerships and the effective use of innovative financing tools. He also highlighted ADFD-funded projects in Uzbekistan and their tangible impact on improving living standards.

New Financing and Cooperation Agreements

On the sidelines of WGS 2026, ADFD signed several major agreements, including a AED 32 million financing agreement with the Republic of Seychelles to support a social housing project providing 80 housing units for low-income families.

The Fund also signed a AED 376 million agreement with the Republic of Tajikistan to finance the Rogun Hydroelectric Power Station, a key project supporting energy and water security and advancing sustainable financing solutions under the Abu Dhabi Global Water Platform.