Manama – October 01, 2026 -- The Bahrain Economic Development Board will convene the fourth edition of Gateway Gulf on November 1-2, 2026, at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, building on a 2025 edition that generated more than USD 17 billion in announced transactions and investment commitments.
Invitation-only forum targets 200 senior decision-makers across five continents
The event, themed 'Reimagining Global Partnerships, Powering Sustainable Growth,' will gather ministerial officials, chief executives and investors from the Middle East, Asia, Europe, Latin America and North America. Bahrain's public and private sector representatives will join 200 senior decision-makers for two days of curated networking, private meetings and investment showcases.
GCC economy tops USD 2.38 trillion as Bahrain positions as regional gateway
The Gulf Cooperation Council's combined economy exceeds USD 2.38 trillion, driven by sustained investment in infrastructure, regional integration and economic diversification. Bahrain's non-oil sectors now contribute 86% of GDP, a figure the host cites to position the island nation as an entry point for investors seeking exposure to the Gulf's broader growth trajectory.
Agenda centers on capital flows, connectivity corridors and the intelligence economy
Sessions will address global capital flows and economic connectivity, the Gulf's expanding role in global growth, industries shaping future competitiveness, and the rise of the intelligence economy. Organizers frame the discussions as a mechanism for governments, investors and businesses to strengthen resilience amid geopolitical shifts, energy transition and accelerating technological change.
Past speaker roster includes ministers from Saudi Arabia, UAE and corporate chairs from GSK, Revolut
Previous editions featured Bahrain's Minister of Finance and National Economy Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Sustainable Development and Bahrain EDB CEO Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb, and UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade Thani Ahmed Al Zeyoudi. Corporate attendees have included Olayan Group Chair Lubna S. Olayan, GSK Board Chair Sir Jonathan Symonds, Revolut Chairman Martin Gilbert, AirAsia and Capital A Berhad CEO Tony Fernandes, and Meliá Hotels International Chairman & CEO Gabriel Escarrer.