For immediate release
Sharjah, October 22, 2025
WAIPA’s flagship global gathering brings together more than 140 countries
to shape the next decade of investment promotion and development
The World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) concluded the 29th World Investment Conference (WIC) today in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, following three days of high-level dialogue, partnerships and policy exchange focused on building resilient, inclusive and innovation-driven investment ecosystems.
Hosted under the patronage of H.E. Mohamed Al Suwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment, and in collaboration with Invest in Sharjah and the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP), this year’s conference brought together leaders from government, industry, international organizations, and investment promotion agencies (IPAs) representing more than 140 countries.
With more than 8000 delegates, WIC 2025 reinforced WAIPA’s position as the world’s leading platfor for advancing the practice and policy of investment promotion.
“This year’s conference has shown that investment promotion is evolving beyond attraction — it is about shaping the future of economies,” said Mr. Ismail Ersahin, Executive Director and CEO of WAIPA. “We leave Sharjah with a renewed commitment to ensure that every dollar of investment delivers value, for people, for economies and for the planet.”
Smart Investment, Sustainable Impact
Day Two sessions focused on how smart manufacturing, artificial intelligence and sustainable finance are redefining global competitiveness.
Panels such as “Transforming Industries Through Smart Manufacturing”, “The Impact of AI and Sustainability on Investment Decisions”, and “Reimagining Global Investment: Smart Policies for a Resilient Future” featured leaders from MoIAT, Siemens, Honeywell, AIIB, and UNIDO, alongside representatives from top IPAs.
A special Consortium of Global Think Tanks, chaired by Dr. James Zhan, Chairman of the WIC Executive Board, convened leading research institutions — including Chatham House, Columbia University and The Wharton School — to identify the next frontier of evidence-based policymaking in investment promotion.
“Knowledge is the cornerstone of effective investment promotion,” said Dr. James Zhan. “As the global landscape grows more complex, policy decisions must be grounded in solid data, foresight, and collaboration between academia, international organizations and IPAs. The Consortium of Global Think Tanks embodies this approach, connecting research to real-world impact.”
High-level sessions organized with UNIDO, ITC, ILO and UN Tourism emphasized how collaboration among multilateral institutions and IPAs can accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The discussions showcased innovative approaches to ESG integration, job creation, nation branding and tourism-led investment.
In a keynote fireside chat, H.E. Mohamed Alabbar, Founder of Emaar Properties and Noon.com, reflected on how entrepreneurial leadership and long-term vision are key to driving regional growth and global competitiveness.
Milestones and Outcomes
The conference closed with the session “WAIPA @ 30: Launching a Decade of Investment for Good,” celebrating WAIPA’s 30th anniversary and outlining a forward-looking agenda for the next decade. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the role of IPAs in achieving sustainable development through global cooperation, innovation and inclusive investment.
“WAIPA’s mission has never been more relevant,” said Dr. James Zhan. “As we look ahead, our focus will be on building the institutional capacity and cross-border partnerships that enable investment for good to scale.”
“Sharjah has provided an inspiring backdrop for this milestone edition of WIC,” added Mr. Mohamed Yaqoub, President of WAIPA and Assistant Director General for Business Development Affairs at KDIPA. “The energy, dialogue and collaboration here have set the tone for a new chapter in global investment promotion.”
About World Investment Conference
Since its inception in 1995, WIC has been the flagship event of WAIPA, serving as a premier platform for dialogue on global investment trends. It brings together decision-makers, senior government officials, and international investors from around the world countries to examine key economic developments that affect FDI flows and explore new avenues for global cooperation and economic integration. The agenda includes high-level plenary sessions, ministerial roundtables, ambassador-investor discussions, and networking activities that foster collaboration between the public and private sectors.
About WAIPA
With 130+ member IPAs representing over 110 nations, WAIPA serves as the primary agency promoting investment promotion and facilitation. By encouraging FDI and highlighting the role of its members, WAIPA continues to drive global economic growth and development.
For more information, please contact: Courtney Fingar, Senior Adviser – Communications, WAIPA [email protected]