Dubai witnessed a convergence of global intellectual excellence as UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum inaugurated the World Laureates Summit on Sunday. The prestigious gathering, held at Madinat Jumeirah as a precursor to the World Governments Summit, assembled Nobel laureates, distinguished scientists, and leading researchers in an unprecedented assembly of scholarly achievement.
In a ceremonial highlight, President Sheikh Mohamed bestowed the esteemed ‘Union Medal’ upon Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chairman of the World Governments Summit Organisation. The honor recognized Al Gergawi’s exceptional contributions to enhancing the UAE’s international standing and diplomatic influence. The presentation occurred before an audience of UAE leadership and global dignitaries, including Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Vice-President and Deputy Prime Minister, and Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and Minister of Defence.
Organized through a strategic collaboration between the World Laureates Association and the World Governments Summit, the WLS initiative aims to advance fundamental scientific research, foster international academic cooperation, and cultivate emerging scientific talent. This year’s accompanying World Governments Summit, scheduled for February 3-5, represents the largest edition in its history with participation from over 45 heads of state, 15 deputy heads of state, 500 ministers, and 150 governmental delegations.
The summit agenda will address five critical thematic areas: global governance structures and effective leadership; societal wellbeing and capacity development; economic prosperity through strategic investments; urban development amidst demographic evolution; and future realities within emerging technological frontiers. This gathering establishes Dubai as a nexus for global policy dialogue and scientific innovation, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a convening power for international discourse.