As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen joint Arab economic and investment cooperation and to foster entrepreneurship and innovation across the Arab world, the third edition of the Arab Innovation and Investment Forum was convened on 21 June at the Egypt Digital Innovation Center (Creativa) in Giza, and on 22 June at the headquarters of the League of Arab States in Cairo, under the theme "Arab Entrepreneurship... Sustainable Investment."
His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Ali bin Ibrahim Al-Maliki, Assistant Secretary-General and head of the Economic Affairs Sector, stated that the event was held under the patronage and organisation of the League of Arab States, in cooperation with the Qaderoon Youth Foundation for Sustainable Development and the Ministries of Youth and Sports and Industry and Trade of the Arab Republic of Egypt.
The forum serves as a comprehensive regional platform that brings together entrepreneurs, investors, business leaders, government entities, and experts, with the aim of promoting innovation and sustainable investment in the Arab region, while advancing the transition to a knowledge-based, sustainable economy.
In his closing remarks, His Excellency underscored the growing interest of Arab countries in innovation and entrepreneurship, recognising them as essential pillars for economic and social progress. He referred to their critical role in supporting collective efforts to achieve sustainable development, enhancing economic performance, and driving inclusive growth amid regional and global challenges and transformations.
The forum constitutes a strategic platform for activating the role of innovation in development and spotlighting the potential of Arab youth as a central force for economic growth. It seeks to forge effective connections between aspiring entrepreneurs, support institutions, and decision-makers across sectors. The event reaffirmed the Arab world's commitment to empowering entrepreneurs, promoting responsible investment, strengthening regional cooperation in addressing contemporary development challenges, and opening new pathways for economic advancement from a holistic and sustainable perspective.
The forum also reviewed strategic plans aimed at cultivating a supportive environment for youth and startups, providing participants with the opportunity to present their ideas and ventures to prominent investors and leading companies. These engagements foster networking, facilitate financing, and encourage commercial expansion, thereby contributing to economic integration and unlocking new growth opportunities in Arab and African markets.
A series of dialogue sessions and interactive workshops were held, alongside an innovation exhibition and a startup showcase. The INNOVEST Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition also took place, offering entrepreneurs a platform to present their projects before a specialised panel of judges and an opportunity for incubation and development during the course of the event.
