Abu Dhabi, UAE – April 7, 2025 – The 14th edition of the Annual Investment Meeting (AIM) Congress officially opens today at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi, gathering over 20,000 participants from 180 countries under the theme “Mapping the Future of Global Investment: The New Wave of a Globalized Investment Landscape – Towards a New Balanced World Structure.”
Hosted by the UAE Ministry of Economy, AIM Congress 2025 features more than 1,250 speakers, including heads of state, over 60 ministers, central bank governors, 30 city mayors, and 600 exhibitors, highlighting the UAE’s growing influence as a global trade and investment hub.
The United Arab Emirates achieved remarkable milestones in foreign trade during 2024, surpassing AED 3 trillion in total trade volume for the first time in its history—equivalent to approximately USD 817 billion. This significant growth reflects the success of the UAE’s economic policies in strengthening its position as a global trade hub.
His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade and President of AIM Congress, emphasized the significance of the event in driving global economic cooperation.
“AIM Congress is a leading global platform that brings together decision-makers, business leaders, investors, and government officials to discuss economic developments and explore new opportunities that drive sustainable economic growth,” said Dr. Al Zeyoudi. “Hosting such major international events reflects the UAE’s pivotal role as a global hub for investment and trade.”
Milestones in UAE Foreign Trade
The Congress follows a record year for the UAE, which surpassed AED 3 trillion (USD 817 billion) in total foreign trade in 2024. The country’s non-oil trade jumped 42.3%, aided by Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) signed with India, Indonesia, and Turkey. Non-oil exports reached AED 561.2 billion.
Key Agendas and Forums
The AIM Congress 2025 spans more than 400 panel discussions and includes 13 roundtable meetings and 23 global forums organized in collaboration with international bodies like UNCTAD, UNIDO, WHO, IRENA, and the World Economic Forum.
Topics range from foreign direct investment (FDI) and digital economy, to smart cities, blockchain regulation, and sustainable finance. Leaders and experts will examine shifting investment trends, particularly the influence of emerging markets, fintech innovations, and the transition to a decentralized world economy.
Highlights include:
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Leaders’ Panel on “New Globalization and Its Impact on Investment Trends”
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Future Finance sessions on AI, digital currencies, and fintech disruption
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Startups & Unicorns portfolio with insights on funding and scaling strategies
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Global Women’s Leadership Roundtable spotlighting women in innovation and philanthropy
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Philanthropy as a Legacy roundtable aligned with the UAE’s “Year of Community”
Additionally, Investment Destinations Forums will spotlight Azerbaijan, Slovenia, Moscow, Nigeria, and Cambodia as rising markets for technology, renewable energy, and tourism.
Partnerships and Innovation
Backed by over 400 local and international partners, AIM Congress underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering innovation-led economic growth. Strategic and lead partners include Saud Bahwan Group, Julphar, Abu Dhabi Ports, and ADGM, while tech and smart city partners include Siemens, UN-Habitat, and AI 360 Innovation.
Running in parallel is the World Local Production Forum (WLPF), hosted in collaboration with the WHO, drawing more than 8,000 experts to address strategies for strengthening local manufacturing ecosystems worldwide.
AIM Congress 2025 continues through April 9, setting the stage for high-level dialogues and strategic collaborations that aim to shape the future of global investment in an increasingly interconnected world.
