London Business School (LBS) hosted its 23rd Annual MENA Conference on its London campus, bringing together a cross-section of policymakers, investors, founders, and industry leaders to discuss the economic trajectory of the Middle East and North Africa. The event served as a high-level platform for dialogue on the region’s most pressing opportunities and challenges.
Quick Facts
- 23rd annual MENA-focused conference held in London.
- Key themes included AI, fintech, and climate change.
- Convened senior policymakers, investors, and founders.
Dissecting the Digital Economy and AI’s Rise
This year’s agenda focused on five core themes shaping the region’s economic future. Discussions analyzed global capital flows and the redeployment of sovereign and private capital, examining its impact on MENA’s markets. Panels also explored the financing landscape for the region’s digital economy, focusing on the development of stronger exit pathways for tech startups.
Other key topics included how climate pressures are reshaping investments in energy and infrastructure, the role of fintech in transforming financial services, and how regional companies can build a sustainable advantage in artificial intelligence through talent, data, and capital.
“This year’s MENA Conference highlights how the region is positioning itself at the intersection of capital, innovation, and global economic transformation,” said Florin Vasvari, Executive Dean of Executive Education, Middle East, at London Business School. “By bringing together policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs, and academics, the conference creates an important platform for dialogue and collaboration that supports the region’s continued growth and global competitiveness.”
A Student-Led Initiative with Global Reach
The conference was organized by current LBS students, reflecting a new generation of leaders shaping the region. The 2026 event was co-chaired by Abdul Aziz Al-Sibaai and Khaled Alawadhi, with support from Ghazi H. Sa’ad Eddin and Julie Assad. The broader organizing committee represents a wide range of industries, including venture capital, finance, public policy, and technology.
Throughout the day, speakers from prominent investment firms and technology companies shared insights on the evolution of MENA’s startup ecosystem and the capabilities required for long-term competitiveness in a global market.
Deepening Roots in the Gulf
The conference underscores LBS’s expanding commitment to the MENA region. Alongside its long-standing campus in Dubai, the school opened an executive office in Riyadh last year to strengthen its engagement with organizations in Saudi Arabia. The move aligns with supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 ambitions while expanding access to its executive education programs.
This growing physical presence in the UAE and Saudi Arabia aims to complement the dialogue fostered at the annual conference, creating new avenues for collaboration and leadership development across the wider region.
About the LBS Annual MENA Conference
For over two decades, the London Business School Annual MENA Conference has been a major event focused on the region, bringing together business leaders, politicians, and social influencers. The conference aims to foster deeper understanding and collaboration by bridging knowledge and opportunities between the MENA region and the global community. It is organized by the LBS MENA Club, which was founded in 2002 to introduce students to the region’s markets and cultures.
Source: Zawya
