The MENA Investment Congress (MENA ICON 2025), organized by CFA Society Emirates, successfully concluded in Abu Dhabi this month, setting a new benchmark for attendance and impact. Over 400 investment professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders from across the globe gathered for two days of insightful discussions, thought leadership, and networking. This year’s event was the largest and most influential edition to date, featuring a stellar lineup of speakers who explored key themes shaping the future of finance, including artificial intelligence, innovation, private capital, and global macroeconomics.
A highlight of the congress was a special recorded address by Hamad Al Mazrouei, Chairman of ADGM Academy and Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development. His inspiring message, broadcast online, highlighted Abu Dhabi’s leadership in driving innovation, talent development, and sustainable growth within the region’s financial ecosystem. This address added significant prestige and institutional backing to the event.
The congress culminated in a headline session featuring Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater Associates and Dalio Family Office. His fireside chat on global economic cycles, market resilience, and long-term investing captivated the audience and left a lasting impression. Other notable speakers included Eric Sim, Lynn Raebsamen, Dr. Aliya Babul, and Brian Corish, among others, who shared diverse perspectives on investment, technology, and innovation.
A central theme throughout the sessions was the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on investment strategies, risk management, and financial advisory practices. Discussions also focused on the evolving landscape of private capital, venture investing, and family offices, underscoring MENA’s growing prominence as a global investment hub.
William Tohme, CFA, President of CFA Society Emirates, remarked, ‘MENA ICON 2025 was more than a conference. It was a meeting of minds dedicated to shaping the future of finance. We are proud to have brought together such an extraordinary community of thought leaders, investors, and policymakers, and we thank all our partners and participants for making this edition truly exceptional.’