In an era defined by rapid geopolitical realignments, the Gulf region finds itself at a pivotal juncture.
As the global landscape undergoes profound structural transformations, the intersection of economic volatility, emerging technologies, and complex diplomatic relations demands a recalibrated approach to international affairs. Nations must navigate an intricate web of regional tensions whilst striving to safeguard their strategic interests. Consequently, the need for robust, forward-thinking dialogue has never been more pressing.
It is against this backdrop of accelerating global change that the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR) and the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA) have jointly announced the third edition of the annual Hili Forum. Scheduled for the 7th and 8th of September 2026, the gathering will be hosted at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort in Abu Dhabi. The event serves as a critical platform for addressing urgent global challenges, anchored by its overarching theme: “Gulf at Crossroads: Conflict, Consequences and Course Correction.”
The strategic alignment of the ECSSR and AGDA reflects a shared organisational commitment to examining the massive regional and international shifts reshaping the global order. The forum is designed to foster a comprehensive understanding of the choices that will define the future of the Gulf. By bringing together diverse perspectives, the gathering aims to move beyond traditional diplomatic rhetoric, focusing on practical policy solutions and strategic foresight.
The Three Pillars of Strategic Dialogue
To address the multifaceted nature of modern global challenges, the Hili Forum 2026 is structured around three principal pillars: geopolitics, geoeconomics, and geotechnology. Discussions will critically examine how Gulf states can successfully navigate a complex environment while actively contributing to a resilient, stable regional order.
Key areas of focus during the forum will include:
Regional Security and Deterrence: Evaluating the future of security architectures and identifying methodologies to mitigate emerging risks in a volatile climate.
Trade and Energy Corridors: Analysing the resilience of critical global supply chains and the evolving dynamics of energy distribution.
The Technology-Geopolitics Nexus: Exploring the growing convergence of rapid technological advancement and international relations.
The Role of Middle Powers: Assessing how emerging middle powers can shape the next phase of the international system and global governance.
A Convergence of Global Leadership
The scale of the third edition underscores its significance on the international diplomatic calendar. The Hili Forum 2026 is expected to convene more than 1,000 participants representing over 35 countries. This elite assembly includes senior government officials, policymakers, seasoned diplomats, academics, and business executives, alongside representatives from prominent international organisations and think tanks.
Furthermore, the agenda will feature insights from more than 55 distinguished speakers. Among the high-profile figures scheduled to address the forum are H.E. Dr. Anwar bin Mohammed Gargash, Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President; H.E. Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC); and H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE Minister of Foreign Trade.
The international breadth of the dialogue is further reinforced by the participation of esteemed global leaders. The roster includes H.E. Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Advisor to His Majesty the King of Bahrain for Diplomatic Affairs; H.E. Carl Bildt, former Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Sweden; and H.E. Vuk Jeremić, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Serbia. Additionally, the forum will welcome H.E. Yoo Jeh Seung, former Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the UAE; H.E. Lieutenant General Stefano Mannino, President of the Centre for Higher Defence Studies (CASD) of the Italian Republic; and H.E. Jean-Yves Le Gall, former President of the International Astronautical Federation (IAF).
Fostering Collaboration in an Era of Uncertainty
The event highlights the imperative to rethink established assumptions regarding security, economic cooperation, and global governance. It serves as a clarion call for constructive dialogue, encouraging stakeholders to manage emerging risks while simultaneously identifying novel opportunities for regional and international collaboration. Through initiatives like the Hili Forum, Abu Dhabi continues to solidify its position as a central hub for strategic thought, driving the conversations that will invariably shape the diplomatic and economic frameworks of tomorrow.
Global leaders convene at Hili Forum 2026
The Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR) and the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA) have jointly announced the third edition of the annual Hili Forum.
