Sheikh Hamdan has directed 500 professionals from five key sectors to join Dubai Future Week 2026 and develop ideas for the emirate’s future
DUBAI: His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, has directed the invitation of 500 professionals from five key sectors to help shape Dubai’s future.
The professionals will participate in the 500 Future Minds initiative during Dubai Future Week, scheduled from November 18 to 21, 2026, at the Museum of the Future and Emirates Towers.
The Dubai Future Foundation will organise the event under the theme For the Human of the Future. More than 10,000 participants are expected to attend.
Five sectors selected
The initiative will bring together 100 professionals from each of the following groups:
- Teachers
- Frontline medical responders
- Entrepreneurs
- Economy and finance professionals
- Urban planners, architects and engineers
Participants will explore how artificial intelligence, robotics, biotechnology and advanced computing could transform their industries.
They will examine future scenarios, identify challenges and develop practical ideas to improve people’s lives.
Sheikh Hamdan emphasised that shaping Dubai’s future requires collective responsibility and collaboration.
He said Dubai aims to transform innovative ideas into policies, legislation and practical solutions that improve quality of life.
Turning ideas into action
The selected professionals will attend a one-day workshop on November 21. Each participant will explore future opportunities and identify actions they can take within their professional field.
Dubai Future Week will also feature discussions, exhibitions, competitions and workshops focused on emerging technologies and societal changes.
The event will examine five themes covering how people will live, think, innovate, feel and conduct business.
The initiative aims to involve professionals directly in Dubai’s long-term development rather than limiting future planning to policymakers and technology experts.
Impact to expect
The programme could help Dubai develop practical solutions in education, healthcare, finance, entrepreneurship and urban planning while strengthening cooperation between professionals and decision-makers.
Eligible professionals can apply through the official Dubai Future Week website. Organisers expect to confirm successful applications by November 1.
