The MENA Investment Congress (MENA ICON 2025), hosted by CFA Society Emirates, recently wrapped up in Abu Dhabi, marking its largest and most impactful edition to date. Over the course of two days, more than 400 investment professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders from across the globe gathered for a series of discussions, thought leadership sessions, and networking opportunities. The event focused on key topics shaping the future of finance, including artificial intelligence, innovation, private capital, and global macroeconomics.
A standout moment at this year’s congress was a special recorded message from Hamad Al Mazrouei, chairman of ADGM Academy and Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development. In his address, Al Mazrouei highlighted Abu Dhabi’s growing role as a leader in fostering innovation, talent development, and sustainable growth within the region’s financial ecosystem. His remarks provided a strong institutional endorsement, adding prestige to the event and reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position in the global financial landscape.
The congress reached its peak with a headline session featuring Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater Associates and the Dalio Family Office. Dalio’s fireside chat captivated the audience as he shared his insights on global economic cycles, market resilience, and the importance of long-term investing. His words resonated with the diverse group of attendees, leaving a lasting impact on the discussions that followed.
Other key speakers included a wide range of experts from various sectors of finance, technology, and innovation. Notable figures such as Eric Sim, CFA, Lynn Raebsamen, CFA, Dr. Aliya Babul, Brian Corish, Rob Salomon, and many more contributed their perspectives on topics including investment strategies, risk management, and the evolving landscape of private capital. These sessions underscored MENA’s growing importance as a hub for global investment and its dynamic role in shaping the future of finance.
A recurring theme throughout the congress was the transformative power of artificial intelligence. AI’s impact on investment strategies, financial advisory practices, and risk management was explored in-depth. As the region continues to develop its technological infrastructure, the integration of AI into financial services is expected to be a game-changer, enhancing decision-making and efficiency within the industry.
In addition to AI, the congress also examined the future of private capital, venture investing, and family offices. MENA’s expanding role as a centre for global investment was evident in these discussions, as experts explored how the region’s financial ecosystem is attracting new players and fostering greater collaboration across borders.
“MENA ICON 2025 was more than a conference. It was a meeting of minds dedicated to shaping the future of finance,” said William Tohme, CFA, president of CFA Society Emirates. “We are proud to have brought together such an extraordinary community of thought leaders, investors, and policymakers, and we thank all our partners and participants for making this edition truly exceptional.”
As the region continues to evolve and attract global investment, events like MENA ICON 2025 play a critical role in charting the course for future developments. The congress not only provided valuable insights but also highlighted the collaborative efforts required to drive sustainable growth in the financial sector.
For more on how MENA is becoming a key player in global financial trends, read about Dubai’s rising position as a global tech hub. Additionally, for those interested in private capital trends, this recent article on MENA’s growing role in investment provides further context.
