The Ministry of Finance and the International Monetary Fund are set to begin the second AlUla Conference for Emerging Market Economies on February 8, 2026. The event will take place in AlUla Governorate and is expected to attract high-level economic decision-makers, finance ministers, central bank governors, leaders from international financial institutions, and a group of global experts.
The conference comes at a time when the world economy faces significant changes in trade and financial systems. These changes have brought challenges such as slower growth, greater uncertainty, and increased pressure on emerging markets. Organizers say this highlights the need for stronger international dialogue and policy coordination to support global economic stability.
According to the organizers, “The Conference aims to contribute to shaping the economic policy agenda for emerging market economies in a manner that supports growth and prosperity, while simultaneously reinforcing global economic stability. This will be achieved by providing a high-level international platform for the exchange of views, policy discussions, and the sharing of relevant experiences and expertise.”
This year’s theme is “Policies Amid a Reset of the International Trade and Financial Systems.” The focus is on how rapid changes in global economics present both challenges and opportunities for emerging markets. Topics include shifts in global trade due to geopolitical factors, developments in monetary and financial systems, and difficulties facing monetary policy during uncertain times.
Other key areas include building fiscal resilience in an unpredictable environment, exploring how public policies can enhance economic strength, encouraging private sector–led growth, improving productivity, and finding balance between state roles and private sector empowerment.
The conference will end with sessions aimed at strengthening resilience in emerging markets. Participants will discuss lessons learned so far and consider future steps for better international cooperation, coordinated policies, and practical solutions to ongoing global economic issues.
Organizers expect that “the AlUla Conference is expected to raise global awareness of emerging market economies’ issues, highlight their pivotal role in the global economy, and strengthen the presence of these issues on the international economic and media agenda,” which they believe will help promote more inclusive long-term growth.
