At a pivotal moment for the global economy, international leaders will engage in open dialogue to explore how partnerships and cross-border investment can catalyse sustainable growth and strengthen economic resilience.
MANAMA, Bahrain, Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Bahrain is set to convene an exclusive gathering of ministerial and senior government officials, visionary chief executives, and influential voices from across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and North America, for the fourth edition of Gateway Gulf, taking place from 1-2 November 2026 at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay under the theme Reimagining Global Partnerships, Powering Sustainable Growth.
Hosted by the Bahrain Economic Development Board (Bahrain EDB), the invitation-only forum will explore how shifting dynamics are transforming investment, capital flows, innovation, and economic collaboration across borders. As geopolitical landscapes evolve, energy systems transition, and technological change accelerates, the forum will examine the strategic relationships, connectivity corridors, and emerging opportunities that will define the future of the world economy.
With a combined economy exceeding USD 2.38 trillion, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has cemented its position as a nexus for capital, talent, and innovation, demonstrating resilience through sustained investment in infrastructure, regional integration, and economic diversification. Serving as a gateway to the region, Bahrain offers a highly connected, business-friendly ecosystem and a diversified economy in which non-oil sectors contribute 86% of GDP, positioning the island nation as a compelling destination for businesses and investors seeking to scale, invest and capture long-term opportunities across one of the world’s most dynamic economic regions.
Together with representatives from Bahrain’s public and private sectors, 200 senior decision-makers will take part in two days of high-level dialogue, executive engagement, and dealmaking. This year’s programme will feature curated networking opportunities, private meetings, and investment showcases designed to foster meaningful partnerships and tangible outcomes. Discussions will explore the evolving landscape of global capital flows and economic connectivity, the Gulf’s expanding role in shaping global growth, the industries defining the next era of competitiveness, and the rise of the intelligence economy. Collectively, these conversations will examine how governments, investors, and businesses can strengthen resilience and unlock new pathways for collaboration in an increasingly interconnected and complex global environment.
Building on its track record as a catalyst for investment and cross-border economic collaboration, the forum has consistently translated dialogue into action, facilitating landmark investment announcements and strategic agreements. The 2025 edition alone generated more than USD 17 billion in announced transactions and investment commitments, reinforcing its role in accelerating capital deployment and contributing to shaping the region’s economic future. Previous editions have welcomed prominent speakers including H.E. Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy of the Kingdom of Bahrain; H.E. Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development, Chief Executive of Bahrain EDB; H.E. Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; H.E. Dr. Thani Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade of the United Arab Emirates; Lubna S. Olayan, Chair of the Corporate Board of The Olayan Group; Andrea C. Bonomi, Chairman of the Industrial Advisory Board at Investindustrial; Sir Alastair King, DL, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London; Sir Jonathan Symonds CBE, Chair of the Board of GSK; Mohammad Abunayyan, Founder & Chairman of the Board of Directors of ACWA Power; Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A Berhad & AirAsia Berhad; Martin Gilbert, Chairman of Revolut; and Gabriel Escarrer, Chairman & CEO of Meliá Hotels International.
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