Dubai: The 8th Global Leadership Conference (GLC) Dubai 2026 concluded successfully on June 20 at The Pearl Executive Hotel in Deira, bringing together global leaders, sustainability experts, educators, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and innovators from across the world to discuss sustainable development and responsible leadership.

Organised by Edufam Training Services UAE and Eco-Visionaries Global Group, with support from ACE International Singapore and Resolve Asia Malaysia, the conference was held under the theme “Green Money, Smart Business – Sustainable Finance, Ethical Growth, Global Impact.”

The event was conceptualised and led by Dr. Haleema Sadia, Founder and Managing Director of Edufam International Academy UAE. In her keynote address titled “Women Leading the Green Economy,” she highlighted the vital role of women entrepreneurs and leaders in driving sustainability, innovation, and inclusive economic growth.

The conference was graced by H.E. Dr. Omar Al Marzooqi of the UAE as the Chief Guest. He was honoured with the prestigious International Leadership Icon Award 2026 in recognition of his contributions to leadership and public service.

GLC Dubai 2026 featured an impressive lineup of international speakers who addressed key topics including sustainability, green finance, ESG strategies, education, technology, emotional intelligence, and future leadership.

Among the notable speakers, Dr. Ali Awadh Al Amoudi spoke on environmental sustainability, while Dr. Sayed Anwar Bari discussed green buildings and sustainable construction in the UAE. Prof. Adel Ahmed highlighted the growing importance of sustainable finance in protecting the environment, and Dr. Sivanesan Sivakaruniam from Singapore shared insights on green finance and responsible investment. Prof. Mohammad Jawaid presented innovative research on biodegradable food packaging made from agricultural waste, promoting a circular economy.

The conference also focused on the human aspect of sustainability. Speakers such as Neelu Malik, Veselina Vargova, Lt. Gen. Anil Malik, Dr. Nasreen Ahmed Bava, Dr. Richa Kumar, and Sana Anzar discussed emotional intelligence, resilient communities, future-ready education, and leadership development.

Youth empowerment was another major theme, with Fardeen Ali Ahmad from Amity University Dubai inspiring attendees through his presentation on entrepreneurship and innovation among young people.

One of the highlights of the event was the Global Leadership Awards 2026, which recognised outstanding individuals for their achievements in leadership, sustainability, education, innovation, technology, and social impact.

Award recipients included H.E. Dr. Omar Al Marzooqi, Dr. Ali Awadh Al Amoudi, Dr. Sayed Anwar Bari, Prof. Adel Ahmed, Prof. Dimithri Devinda Jayagoda, Prof. Mohammad Jawaid, Akhtar Alam, Saiyed Manazir Abbas, Dr. Isha Farha Qureshi, Nowsheen Yaqoob, Iffat Beg, Noohi Fatima, Sana Anzar, Dr. Nasreen Ahmed Bava, Jazeela Bano, Mohammad Anwarul Haque, Hafsath Aleem, Preeti Mishra Upadhyaya, Dr. Sivanesan Sivakaruniam, Lt. Gen. Anil Malik, Neelu Malik, Dr. Abhijit Sarkar, Veselina Vargova, Sangita Tiwari, and Ranjana Pandey.

Participants from the UAE, India, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, the Maldives, and several other countries attended the conference, reinforcing its role as a global platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing.

As the conference concluded, organisers emphasised that the future of leadership lies in integrating sustainability, ethical finance, innovation, emotional intelligence, and inclusive development. The event ended with a strong message calling for collective action toward building a greener, more responsible, and sustainable future.

“One City. One Mission. Sustainable Futures.” was the key message that resonated throughout GLC Dubai 2026.