FHS World 2026 to Convene Global Hospitality Leaders in Dubai

Dubai is set to host FHS World 2026, the Middle East’s premier hospitality investment summit, from September 29 to October 1 at Madinat Jumeirah. The event will be officially opened by Abdulla Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, who will deliver the opening keynote address on "The UAE Growth Engine: Tourism, Investment and the New Economy."

The summit will gather more than 100 government representatives, investors, and hospitality industry leaders to discuss crucial themes including investment, innovation, sustainability, technology, tourism, and workforce development, under the overarching theme of "Reinvest in our Future."

Key Features for Investors and Innovators

FHS World 2026 is designed with an investment-led agenda, featuring several key platforms aimed at fostering connections and opportunities:

• FHS Living: This expanded platform, replacing the former Branded Residences Forum, will dedicate October 1 to exploring seven distinct living asset classes.
• FHS Dealroom: This dedicated space will showcase real estate investment opportunities and hospitality projects to potential investors.
• Investors Lounge and Investor Breakfast: These platforms provide senior decision-makers with further opportunities to explore new ventures and build relationships.

Supporting Startups and Recognizing Leadership

The event will also see the return of the Startup Den, offering entrepreneurs direct access to investors, hotel groups, and hospitality leaders. This initiative aims to support innovation within the sector, with previous winners like MONSAPO having gained significant visibility and validation.

Beyond that, the summit will present the FHS Leadership Award on September 29, honouring an industry pioneer for their contributions to excellence, innovation, and leadership within the hospitality sector.

Organised by The Bench, FHS World 2026 will include a comprehensive three-day program featuring keynote speeches, panel discussions, presentations, and roundtable debates. Networking opportunities will be abundant, with a newcomers session, speed networking, and an AI-powered matchmaking application to connect delegates. Informal engagement will also be facilitated through events like a welcome reception at Jumeirah Mina Al Salam and various recreational activities.