The World Laureates Summit was inaugurated in the UAE under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. The World Laureates Summit brings together leading Nobel Prize winners and recipients of major international scientific awards.

Also present at the opening ceremony were His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence.

The World Laureates Summit runs for three days and brings together more than 100 scientists, researchers, and global thought leaders. Participants include Nobel laureates and leaders of major research institutions from around the world.

Meanwhile, the summit coincides with the World Governments Summit 2026, taking place from 3 to 5 February. Notably, 3 February has been designated as a joint day. It brings together laureates, heads of state, ministers, and leaders of international organisations.

During the event, Their Highnesses were briefed on key scientific discussions. These discussions focus on long-term strategic thinking and multidisciplinary cooperation. They also highlight the role of basic sciences in addressing global economic, social, and political challenges.

In his remarks, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan emphasised that scientists are essential partners in shaping the future. He stated that investing in knowledge and research is key to navigating global challenges. He added that the UAE will remain a global platform for visionaries, innovators, and thinkers.

Furthermore, His Highness noted that science is central to the UAE’s long-term vision. He said that countries prioritising knowledge are better positioned to lead global transformations. He also highlighted the UAE’s commitment to building a comprehensive scientific ecosystem.

In addition, he stressed that modern challenges require unconventional solutions. He said scientists must play an active role in decision-making and policy development. He expressed hope that scientific dialogue would generate sustainable solutions for future generations.

Similarly, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum affirmed that the UAE continues to serve as a hub for bold ideas and innovation. He said convening scientists and Nobel laureates reflects the country’s commitment to science. He described science as the true wealth of nations.

Moreover, he stated that people are the UAE’s greatest asset. He added that empowering researchers and attracting global talent are essential for sustainable development. He reaffirmed the UAE’s role as a global centre for knowledge and creativity.

Meanwhile, His Excellency Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chairman of the World Governments Summit, praised the leadership’s support for science. He said the UAE has become an incubator for global intellectual exchange. He emphasised that investing in knowledge is the foundation of national progress.

He also highlighted the impact of artificial intelligence and advances in health sciences. He noted that traditional boundaries between scientific disciplines are dissolving. He stressed the need for new approaches to research and collaboration.

Furthermore, Al Gergawi said the summit is being held at a pivotal moment. He cited political shifts, rapid technological change, and economic pressures. He added that the role of scientists is now more critical than ever.

At the same time, Professor Roger Kornberg, President of the World Laureates Association and Nobel Laureate in Chemistry, announced plans to establish a new WLA base in the UAE. The initiative aims to strengthen global scientific collaboration and research.

He described the summit as unprecedented in scope and diversity. He said it creates a platform where science meets government, industry, and finance. He added that the partnership with the World Governments Summit helps ensure that scientific insights reach policymakers.

Kornberg also highlighted key discussion themes. These include artificial intelligence, climate challenges, disease prevention, and scientific discovery. He said the goal is to ensure science is widely understood and applied.

Meanwhile, Wang Hou, Executive Director and Secretary-General of the World Laureates Association, praised the UAE’s commitment to knowledge. He said the country’s support for science has enabled the summit’s success. He added that the UAE plays a key role in shaping the future of global research.

The World Laureates Summit is organised in partnership between the World Governments Summit and the World Laureates Association. It is the largest scientific gathering of its kind. It brings together recipients of the Nobel Prize, Turing Award, Wolf Prize, Lasker Award, Fields Medal, and Breakthrough Prize.

The World Laureates Association currently includes 187 leading scientists, including 78 Nobel laureates. The summit’s agenda is centred on the theme, “Basic Sciences: Scientific Consensus for Addressing the Challenges of Humanity.”

It features keynote speeches, plenary sessions, specialised forums, strategic roundtables, and extended dialogues. Key focus areas include artificial intelligence, quantum science, nanotechnology, biotechnology, genomics, data science, cryptography, and neurotechnology.

Discussions also explore how science supports governance and economic systems. They examine responsible technology development and international cooperation in complex geopolitical environments.

The first day included the AI Sciences Forum, the Disruptive Technologies Forum, the New Energy Forum, and the Scientific Discovery Forum. The second day features nine specialised forums covering genetics, physics, life sciences, blockchain, nuclear physics, and university leadership. The third day includes the Young Scientists Forum and joint sessions with the World Governments Summit.

Through these initiatives, the UAE continues to position itself as a global hub for innovation, research, and collaboration. The World Laureates Summit remains a central platform for advancing scientific dialogue and addressing humanity’s shared challenges.

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