WORLDEF Dubai 2024 Forum Opens with Global Participation
WORLDEF Dubai 2024 Forum Opens with Global Participation. WAM
Dubai: The world’s largest digital commerce event, the WORLDEF Dubai 2024 Forum, officially kicked off under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ). The event attracted over 5,000 participants from 40+ countries, highlighting Dubai’s growing role in global digital trade.
A Hub for E-commerce Innovation
The forum, hosted by Dubai CommerCity, the region’s first free zone dedicated to digital commerce, is a joint venture between DIEZ and Wasl Properties. Organized by WORLDEF, an international platform promoting cross-border e-commerce growth, the two-day event focuses on collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and exploring emerging trends in digital commerce, artificial intelligence, sustainable logistics, and investment opportunities.
Key Dignitaries and Attendees
The opening ceremony featured notable figures, including:
- Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade
- Murodali Alimardon, Deputy Prime Minister of Tajikistan
- Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ and Chairman of Dubai CommerCity
- Ambassadors and consuls from countries such as Mexico, Turkiye, and Singapore
Representatives from top international digital commerce companies also attended, further solidifying Dubai’s position as a leader in the sector.
E-commerce as a Cornerstone of the Global Economy
In his keynote, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi emphasized the transformative power of e-commerce:
“Global e-commerce sales are projected to exceed $6.4 trillion in 2024, with mobile commerce making up nearly $2 trillion. Online purchases will account for 20% of all retail sales—a testament to digital trade’s impact.”
Dr. Al Zeyoudi also highlighted Dubai’s significant investments in e-commerce infrastructure, such as the establishment of Dubai CommerCity, which advances the Middle East’s digital economy.
Tajikistan’s Strategic Vision
Murodali Alimardon, Deputy Prime Minister of Tajikistan, shared insights into his country’s 2030 National Development Strategy. He emphasized leveraging natural resources and infrastructure to enhance citizens’ living standards while advancing digital trade and forging international partnerships.
Dubai’s Role in Non-Oil Economic Growth
Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni stressed Dubai’s commitment to fostering non-oil economic growth through digital commerce.
“Hosting WORLDEF Dubai 2024 aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, showcasing the city’s role as a global trade hub.”
He also noted the impressive participation of global stakeholders, reflecting Dubai’s critical position in trade, logistics, and related services.
Strengthening UAE-Turkiye Trade Ties
The Ambassador of Turkiye highlighted the UAE’s role as Turkiye’s largest trading partner in the GCC and emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral trade relations. Both nations serve as key business and aviation hubs, enhancing regional trade connectivity.
Driving Global Trade Through Partnerships
Omar Nart, CEO of WORLDEF, praised Dubai’s innovation-friendly environment:
“This year’s theme, ‘Driving Global Trade Through Partnerships and Innovation,’ underscores the importance of collaboration in the rapidly evolving digital economy.”
Focus on Digital Economy Growth
The forum’s first day included a discussion with Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers. Lootah highlighted the UAE’s Digital Economy Strategy, which aims to double the sector’s GDP contribution from 9.7% in 2022 to 19.4% by 2032.
He also outlined initiatives to support local tech startups, attract global enterprises, and build a robust regulatory framework to accelerate digital business growth.
A Bright Future for Digital Commerce
Dubai’s strong economic indicators and strategic efforts ensure a promising future for digital trade. By hosting events like WORLDEF Dubai 2024, the city continues to position itself as a global hub for innovation and commerce, driving significant growth across the Middle East and beyond.
