World Investment Forum 2026 opens in Doha

The World Investment Forum 2026 opened today in Doha, Qatar, convening governments, business leaders and international organizations to address how to direct capital toward the economies and sectors that need it most, according to a press release by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Hosted by Qatar, a major international investor, the ninth edition of the Forum takes place as capital becomes increasingly concentrated and global value chains are reshaped by geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty. The event provides a platform for dialogue and partnerships to help rebuild confidence in the region and beyond. It brings together those who shape investment policy and those who allocate capital. Organized by UNCTAD since 2008, the Forum shapes investment policies, forges partnerships and identifies priorities for action.

UNCTAD’s latest Global Investment Trends Monitor, released today, shows that the value of international investment rose in the first half of 2026, supported by major transactions in strategic sectors. However, new investment projects and cross-border transactions continued to decline worldwide. In developing countries, investment in sectors critical to development — including infrastructure, energy, health and food systems — fell by more than 25%. The World Investment Report 2026 also shows that more than 80% of global foreign direct investment went to just 20 economies in 2025. Geopolitical tensions, energy price pressures and supply chain disruptions continue to weigh on the investment outlook.

Held under the theme “Investing in the future”, the Forum brings together more than 5,000 participants, including heads of government, ministers, CEOs, investors, sovereign wealth fund leaders, representatives of international organizations and more than 200 international journalists. Four prime ministers — from Qatar, Lesotho, Libya and Madagascar — will attend, alongside four deputy prime ministers and nearly 50 government ministers. The programme features more than 80 sessions and over 400 speakers. Topics cover investment policy, artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship, sustainable finance, climate and the environment, tourism and culture, investment promotion and special economic zones. Two ministerial meetings, focusing on investment and entrepreneurship, will bring government representatives together to discuss policy priorities and cooperation.

Three regional investment reports will provide further analysis of trends, opportunities and policy developments across the Caribbean, the Eurasian Economic Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council. The Forum will also recognize excellence through the Investment Promotion Awards and the Women in Business Awards. For the first time, artificial intelligence has a dedicated track, as AI infrastructure becomes a major destination for strategic investment. Participants will examine how developing economies can benefit from these opportunities rather than fall further behind. The programme also introduces discussions on investing in peace, examining how investment can support reconstruction and recovery in fragile and conflict-affected economies beyond immediate humanitarian relief.

A new session on investment in space will explore how developing countries can participate in this rapidly expanding industry. Conversations on art and civilization will examine investment opportunities in culture. The Forum seeks to help close gaps at a time when investment is becoming increasingly selective and governments are prioritizing strategic industries and national economic interests. Plenary sessions can be followed live on the World Investment Forum’s official website. The ninth edition continues UNCTAD’s role in convening stakeholders to shape the future of global investment.