The 13th Annual Investment Meeting (AIM) was held in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, from May 7 to 9 under the theme "Adapting to the Changing Investment Landscape: harnessing new potential for global economic development," the UAE National News Agency reported. Hosted by the AIM Global Foundation, the conference brought together industry leaders, policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs and experts from around the world to discuss innovative strategies and opportunities for economic growth and prosperity, attracting more than 900 speakers and organizing more than 450 dialogues, seven high-level roundtables and 27 side events, including the "G20 Investment Facilitating Agencies Coordination Meeting". Participants actively explored ways to promote changes in the investment climate and to strengthen cooperation in order to make a real impact on global economic growth.
Following his keynote address at the opening ceremony of theAnnual Investment Meeting(AIM) in Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Saud bin Sagar Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the UAE Federal Government and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, held a series of meetings with high-level delegates attending the conference to discuss investment strategies aimed at realizing sustainable development at home and abroad. Sheikh Saud's insightful and inspiring keynote speech, followed by meetings with the heads of global investment funds and business leaders, underscored Ras Al Khaimah's and the UAE's commitment to driving economic growth at home and abroad through sustainable investment strategies to create a better future for future generations. This vision coincides with the theme of the AIM Conference and highlights the UAE's important role in leading the transformation of the global investment landscape.
AIM Congress 2024 will explore two important themes at the 13th edition: the SMEs Track and the Regional Focus Forums Track. These tracks are designed to address critical issues facing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and promote regional cooperation and synergy for sustainable progress and development. The SMEs Track at AIM Congress 2024 will focus on empowering SMEs to thrive in an increasingly competitive global landscape. Key sessions at AIM Congress 2024's SMEs Track offer a comprehensive exploration of critical challenges and opportunities. The Leaders’ Panel delves into the nuances of Outward Foreign Direct Investments (OFDI) for SMEs, highlighting emerging trends and strategies. Customer-centric innovation takes centre stage in the Panel on AI's role in enhancing loyalty and retention.
Additionally, AIM Talks 2024 celebrates Women Led SMEs, showcasing inspiring models of success. The Regional Focus Forums Track will explore the importance of regional cooperation and synergy in addressing common challenges and unlocking new opportunities for economic advancement. With dedicated forums covering regions such as Europe, Asia, Africa, BRICS, the Arab Region, Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), and the African Caribbean Pacific (ACP) region, this track will facilitate cross-border collaboration, knowledge sharing, and partnership building to drive sustainable progress and development.
Key forums at AIM Congress 2024's Regional Focus Track will comprise discussions on regional cooperation and progress. The European Regional Forum aims to empower Europe's future through strategic investments driving growth and competitiveness. The Asia Regional Forum seeks to unlock the continent's potential by harmonising sustainability efforts and advancing technology for economic development. In Africa, the spotlight is on the continent's economic growth outpacing global forecasts at the Africa Regional Forum. The BRICS Business Forum discusses the shift in the world's economic centre towards BRICS nations, reshaping the global landscape. Other forums include the Arab Regional Forum and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Forum, focusing on innovation-driven sustainability and global transitions, respectively. These forums will provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss regional challenges, explore collaborative solutions, and identify opportunities for mutual growth and prosperity.