Abu Dhabi

In an opening speech at the thirteenth Investment Summit held in Abu Dhabi, His Excellency Dr. Ali Mohamed Al-Khouri, Advisor to the Council of Arab Economic Unity and President of the Arab Federation for Digital Economy, stressed the importance of digitization as a fundamental driver of economic transformation and sustainable development in Arab countries, pointing to the importance of economic integration between Arab capitals. And enhancing digital flexibility to adapt to changes and confront potential disruptions.

Al-Khouri praised the progress achieved by Arab digital initiatives, especially in the GCC countries, noting the importance of the “Arab Vision for the Digital Economy” that was adopted at the Algiers Summit 2022, which included 50 initiatives to strengthen the Arab digital economy. He added that these initiatives constitute the backbone of the digital environmental framework, and primarily aim to enhance the flexibility of Arab markets and drive digital transformation in light of the rapid technological and economic transformations.

The President of the Arab Federation for the Digital Economy pointed to the recent version of the Arab Digital Economy Index for 2024, which highlights the progress made in adopting digital strategies across Arab countries, and that it reflects the necessity of integrating national plans and aligning them with the broader economic and social goals of the region.

Al-Khouri concluded his speech, addressing the Arab digital future, stressing the importance of the Arab region paying greater attention to digital technology, and that this requires placing the Arab workforce at the forefront of national strategic plans, explaining at the same time that the Arab Federation for the Digital Economy will continue its efforts to support Arab countries. In cooperation with Arab League institutions and international organizations to create an ecosystem that supports sustainable digital growth in the region.

The Investment Summit witnesses wide participation from international investors and experts, and is an opportunity to enhance Arab cooperation and attract foreign investments, and emphasizes the importance of innovation and digitalization in achieving progress and prosperity for the Arab region.