MUDHI ALOBTHANI (ABU DHABI) 

Dr. Anwar Mohammed Gargash, Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President, stressed the need to move away from “maximalist views” in addressing the Palestinian issue, noting that traditional deterrence strategies are no longer applicable in the current context.

Speaking at the Reuters NEXT Gulf Leadership Summit in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, Dr. Gargash said the recent Gaza ceasefire offers a significant opportunity - but also underscores the urgency of rethinking the approach to the conflict.

“This is definitely a moment of opportunity … We see opportunity because we have a chance today to change course,” he said.

The shift in approach should acknowledge the claim of both sides and lead towards a two-state solution, Dr. Gargash said. “Some policies are no longer valid and should not be reincarnated, the maximalist views on the Palestinian issue are no longer valid. We have to address the issue that we have two contending nationalisms fighting on one piece of land, and that land has to be divided.”

He also emphasised the importance of collective action. “We are part of an overall Arab and international vision,” he said, highlighting the UAE’s commitment to ensuring ceasefires hold and peace initiatives, including those involving Gaza, are implemented effectively.

Defining the Next Chapter for the Middle East

Hosted by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), the inaugural Reuters NEXT Gulf Leadership Summit brought together over 500 global leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to explore leadership, economic growth, and regional cooperation.

The summit, held at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, aimed to define the next chapter for the Middle East in a world marked by rapid political, financial, social and technological transformation. As the GCC region outpaces global economic growth - driven by AI and diversification beyond oil and gas - the event served as a platform to explore emerging opportunities and challenges amid the region’s expanding global influence.

In the panel “What’s Next? MENA’s Role in the New World Order”, Lana Nusseibeh, Minister of State, addressed the region’s evolving geopolitical and economic significance. The discussion explored how Gulf countries are harnessing innovation, diversification, and technological leadership to shape a more prosperous and resilient future.

Economic development and sustainability were central themes throughout the summit. Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADDED, spoke about initiatives driving sustainable growth, while Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, Undersecretary of ADDED, shared insights on economic development strategies and public-private partnerships.

Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, President of the IUCN and Special Envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Nature, highlighted the UAE’s leadership in environmental sustainability and climate action.

Business leaders contributed perspectives on innovation and development.

Mohamed Alabbar, Founder and Chairman of Emaar, and Hussain Sajwani, Chairman of Damac Group, discussed investment opportunities and the future of real estate in the UAE. Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar, detailed initiatives in renewable energy and the nation’s transition toward a green economy.