World Entrepreneurs Investment Forum (WEIF) 2026, hosted by the Kingdom of Bahrain, has commenced at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre, convening global leaders to advance entrepreneurship and innovation as drivers of sustainable economic growth.
The sixth edition of the World Entrepreneurs Investment Forum (WEIF) serves as a premier international platform, bringing together global decision-makers, investors, policymakers, innovators, and entrepreneurs from diverse industries.
The forum fosters collaboration, knowledge exchange, and strategic partnerships, providing opportunities to showcase cutting-edge ideas, innovative solutions, and sustainable investment initiatives that drive economic growth and development worldwide.
The World Entrepreneurs Investment Forum is organized by UNIDO’s Investment and Technology Promotion Office in Bahrain, in partnership with the Arab League, the Bahrain Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the Union of Arab Chambers, and the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, with a focus on advancing the Sustainable Development Goals through entrepreneurship and innovation.
The opening ceremony of World Entrepreneurs Investment Forum 2026, held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Bahrain, was attended by Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Bahraini Minister of Finance and National Economy.
Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary General of the Arab League, Gerd Müller, Director General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and senior officials were also present at the event.
Image credits: BNA | Cropped by GBN
Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Minister of Finance and National Economy, said that the Kingdom, under King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, is strengthening a national ecosystem that supports entrepreneurship and innovation, turning high-quality ideas into sustainable investments.
The minister highlighted government initiatives led by HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister that boost economic competitiveness and support entrepreneurs, start-ups, and SMEs. He also stressed UNIDO Bahrain’s role in investing in human capital through skills development and practical training, preparing a workforce ready for global economic shifts.
During the World Entrepreneurs Investment Forum 2026, Minister Al Khalifa toured the exhibition featuring the School Olympiad, home-based enterprises, and innovation projects for persons with disabilities, praising initiatives that foster talent, inclusion, and community empowerment.
Image credits: BNA | Cropped by GBN
Arab League Secretary General Ahmed Aboul Gheit commended Bahrain’s efforts in organizing and hosting the World Entrepreneurs Investment Forum, spotlighting the strong cooperation among participating entities. Appreciation was expressed to the Kingdom’s leadership, government, and people for their hospitality, and to HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister for patronage of the event. Entrepreneurship and innovation were underscored as key drivers of sustainable development and Arab economic integration.
UNIDO Director General Gerd Müller highlighted the world’s capabilities to address development challenges but stressed the need for strong will, renewed international cooperation, and broader investment momentum. Entrepreneurship and innovation were emphasized as central to industrial development, with support for women and youth seen as a direct investment in resilient and inclusive societies, Müller added.
Image credits: BNA | Cropped by GBN
Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce, outlined the National Innovation Strategy (2025-2035), focusing on research and development, innovation-driven start-ups, talent and skills development, and digital transformation. Efforts by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Board, including a credit rating system and secured transactions law, aim to strengthen financing, expand access to regional and international markets, and reinforce Bahrain as a regional hub for entrepreneurship and investment.
Dr. Hashem Hussain, Head of UNIDO’s Investment and Technology Promotion Office in Bahrain, pointed out that the World Entrepreneurs Investment Forum reflects years of work supporting entrepreneurs worldwide. Access to skills, funding, and opportunities remains critical for economic development, with governments, development partners, and the private sector sharing responsibility for removing barriers, empowering women, youth, and persons with disabilities, and supporting creative home-based entrepreneurs.
