2026 International Business Conference, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, UAE
Join the FWA International Business Conference in the United Arab Emirates!
The 2026 Financial Women’s Association's
International Business Conference (IBC) will bring together senior professionals and emerging leaders for a week of high-level meetings, strategic insights, and cross-cultural exchange in two of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Join us to explore how the United Arab Emirates has emerged as one of the world’s most dynamic financial and innovation hubs, bridging capital and talent between East and West and expanding economic links with emerging markets worldwide. Anchored by Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth funds and Dubai’s global financial centers, the UAE combines large investment capital with a modern, English-law regulatory environment, advanced infrastructure, and a long-term national vision for sustainable growth. Its leadership in energy transition, fintech, and digital innovation, together with a commitment to collaboration and inclusive growth, make it a powerful destination for understanding how global finance and new technologies are reshaping economies worldwide.
Organized in partnership with leading U.S. and UAE institutions, the 2026 IBC will feature private briefings with financial and business leaders, government officials, and sovereign wealth executives; conversations with innovators driving the next wave of fintech, energy, and sustainability; and cultural programs that foster global understanding. Together, we’ll also explore how women are shaping capital, innovation, and leadership within the UAE and on the global stage.
The FWA delegation will include both seasoned executives and rising professionals, reflecting the FWA’s commitment to mentorship, intergenerational learning, and lifelong professional growth.
This trip marks the FWA’s return to the UAE following our landmark 2012 delegation. Fourteen years later, we revisit a nation that has transformed its economy and deepened its global influence, offering fresh opportunities for dialogue, connection, and collaboration.
Why Join the Delegation
Participation in the FWA International Business Conference is recognized by many employers as a premier professional development experience. Delegates return with fresh insights, expanded networks, and a deeper understanding of how global markets and leadership intersect.
- Discover the UAE’s growing influence in global finance, investment, and sustainable development.
- Engage with decision-makers shaping capital, technology, and energy transition.
- Gain firsthand perspectives on innovation, fintech, and evolving global markets.
- Exchange best practices in governance, inclusion, and leadership across borders.
- Connect with a powerful network of peers and global leaders.
Together, we’ll explore how women are shaping capital, innovation, and leadership on the world stage—and how the UAE is positioning itself as a bridge between regions and opportunity.
Click here for a preview of the program and highlights from the 2026 agenda.
Conference Registration Fees*
Early Bird Rates: $1500 Members / $2000 Non-Members
(Ends December 15)
Regular Rates: $2000 Members / $2500 Non-Members
*A non-refundable fee of $500 will be retained if you cancel your registration
Individuals are separately responsible for personal travel and accommodations. Suggestions and recommendations will be provided to registered delegates.
Questions?
Reach out to [email protected] for more information.
In 1978, the FWA was one of the first groups to visit China after the country's reopening. Subsequently, the globalization of finance led the FWA to launch its series of international business conferences in 1985. Each year, participants explore a new destination where fundamental investment and business opportunities are developing.
Program Preview
Here’s a first look at some of the panels we’re planning. With more than 20 sessions and a dynamic lineup of speakers still to be announced, this is just the beginning - stay tuned for more details!
Capital at Scale – The Power of Sovereign Wealth as Drivers of Expansion and Growth
Explore how Abu Dhabi’s sovereign funds—ADIA, Mubadala, and ADQ—deploy capital to shape global markets, drive innovation, and redefine long-term growth.
Beyond Banking – Wealth, Innovation, and the Next Frontier
From First Abu Dhabi Bank to ADGM’s fintech hub, this session examines how financial institutions and asset managers are evolving to capture new opportunities and partnerships. Explore alignment opportunities between asset managers and UAE capital allocators.
Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange – Building Regional and Global Capital Markets
The largest and fastest-growing exchange in the UAE, with market capitalization exceeding $700 billion. A regional leader in IPO activity and market innovation, with rapidly expanding listings and liquidity. A gateway for international investors to access the UAE’s dynamic capital markets.
Energy and Sustainability: UAE as Leader in Traditional and Transformative Energy
Energy is at the heart of the global economy, and discussion about it has often been a priority for FWA International Business Conferences. It will be especially important in UAE, where ADNOC is known as a major global oil and gas producer and source of innovation.
Sustainable Desalinization and Water Innovation in Arid Climates
The UAE depends heavily on desalination for its drinking water — about 90% of its supply. The government is investing in energy-efficient, renewable-powered desalination.
Wealth of Nations: Dubai as a Family Office & Wealth Management Hub
How Dubai is becoming a magnet for global family offices and private wealth, with new regulations, global banks, and generational shifts in leadership.
