UAE to host the 2029 World Bank Group and IMF Annual Meetings in Abu Dhabi

The UAE has formally signed an agreement to host the 2029 Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Abu Dhabi, reinforcing the country’s growing role in international economic cooperation and financial decision-making.

The agreement was signed at the conclusion of the 2026 Annual Meetings in Bangkok, Thailand, marking another milestone in the UAE’s efforts to strengthen its position as a global financial centre.

According to the World Bank Group, the agreement was signed by Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, and Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of the Central Bank of the UAE, alongside World Bank Group President Ajay Banga and IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva.

Al Hussaini said the agreement reflects international confidence in the UAE’s economic infrastructure, financial system and ability to host major global events.

He highlighted the country’s commitment to creating a platform for financial leaders and policymakers to explore solutions that strengthen monetary stability, development financing and international economic cooperation.

Balama said hosting the meetings would further reinforce the UAE’s role in shaping the international financial system while supporting innovation in financial services and the transition towards sustainable finance.

The meetings will bring together finance ministers, central bank governors, policymakers, business leaders and economic experts from 191 countries to discuss global economic challenges, financial stability and opportunities for sustainable growth.

Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank Group, highlighted Abu Dhabi’s growing importance as a centre for economic dialogue, noting that the meetings would focus on delivering development outcomes, including job creation, economic growth and access to financing.

IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva also welcomed the agreement, recognising the UAE’s expanding role in finance, innovation and international cooperation.

Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, said the event would provide an opportunity to strengthen investment partnerships and contribute to discussions on the future of global economic growth.

The 2029 gathering will mark the second time the UAE has hosted the World Bank Group and IMF Annual Meetings, following Dubai in 2003.

The agreement builds on the UAE’s longstanding partnerships with both institutions and reflects Abu Dhabi’s ambition to serve as a hub for international financial dialogue, investment and economic policymaking.