The third edition of the Hili Forum 2026 has officially commenced in Abu Dhabi, uniting a diverse array of stakeholders to explore pressing challenges in the Gulf region and beyond. The forum, featuring over 1,000 attendees, including eminent speakers and representatives from more than 35 nations, is centered around the theme “Gulf at Crossroads: Conflict, Consequences and Course Correction.”

Key Themes and Organizational Structure

Jointly orchestrated by the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR) and the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA), this two-day event is being held at the luxurious St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort. The agenda is structured around three primary focal points: geopolitics, geoeconomics, and geotechnology. By concentrating on these critical areas, the forum aims to facilitate in-depth discussions on the complexities arising from the evolving landscape of international relations.

Discussion Topics and Objectives

The organisers have outlined specific topics that will structure the conversations throughout the forum. Key discussions will revolve around regional security frameworks, the resilience of global trade and energy routes, significant geoeconomic transitions, and the interplay between technology and geopolitics. Further, the forum will delve into the crucial role played by middle-power nations in shaping the future of the international order. By addressing these multifaceted issues, the Hili Forum seeks to illuminate the path forward for the Gulf region and its influence on global dynamics.

Day One Highlights and Notable Speakers

The inaugural day of the forum includes sessions dedicated to the inspection of regional security, strategic deterrence measures, navigational freedoms in critical waters like the Strait of Hormuz, and the evolving role of the Gulf in a shifting global context. The caliber of speakers at the event is impressive, featuring prominent figures such as Dr. Anwar bin Mohammed Gargash, the Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President; Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council; and Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE Minister of Foreign Trade.

Additionally, notable speakers such as Carl Bildt, a former Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Sweden, and Vuk Jeremić, a former Foreign Minister of Serbia, lend their expertise to the discussions, enriching the forum’s deliberations with diverse perspectives.

Future Discussions and Areas of Focus

Continuing on 8 September, the forum will transition into discussions centered around cutting-edge issues like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and the intricate web of regional developments including Iran’s geopolitical activities. Topics such as maritime and water security, as well as advancements in space infrastructure, will also be covered. These discussions are designed not only to illuminate current challenges but also to propose strategic solutions to navigate the complexities of today’s international landscape.

In summary, the Hili Forum 2026 is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping discourse on vital issues affecting the Gulf region and the broader global context, fostering collaboration among nations in the face of multifaceted challenges.