Dubai: The World Laureates Summit opens on February 1, 2026 in Dubai, bringing together more than 150 scientists and invited participants, including Nobel Prize laureates and recipients of the world's most prestigious scientific awards, alongside leaders of research institutions and policymakers from around the globe.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Summit, held in parallel with the World Governments Summit 2026, offers a unique platform for the convergence of scientific knowledge and global decision-making. This collaboration emphasizes the pivotal role that basic science plays in tackling humanity's most intricate challenges.
Organised by the World Laureates Association (WLA) in partnership with the World Governments Summit (WGS), the event ranks among the largest and most esteemed scientific gatherings globally, characterized by the exceptional caliber of its participants.
Over a span of three days, the Summit will gather recipients of notable international honors such as the Nobel Prize, Turing Award, Wolf Prize, Lasker Award, Fields Medal, and Breakthrough Prize. These distinguished individuals will engage in strategic dialogues aimed at fostering long-term, multidisciplinary cooperation.
The theme of the Summit, 'Basic Sciences: Scientific Consensus for Addressing the Challenges of Humanity,' underscores the significance of integrating sound scientific principles into global policy, economic systems, and technological development.
Key discussion topics will encompass areas that are pivotal to the future of civilization, including Artificial intelligence and machine learning, Quantum sciences and nanotechnology, Biotechnology and genomics, Data science and cryptography, Neurotechnology and brain sciences, and Energy and advanced materials.
Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications and Vice Chairman of the World Governments Summit Foundation, stated that hosting the Summit alongside the World Governments Summit reflects the UAE's commitment to leveraging science and knowledge as drivers for a better future for humanity. The aim is to translate scientific insight into actionable strategies and ensure that global governance is informed by rigorous scientific thinking.
Professor Roger D. Kornberg, Chairman of the World Laureates Association and Nobel Laureate in Chemistry, emphasized the necessity of strong scientific foundations for effective global policy. He lauded the UAE's commitment to this vision, recognizing the essential role of basic science in shaping humanity's future.
The World Laureates Summit aims to transcend short policy cycles by enhancing integration across scientific disciplines and linking basic research with governance worldwide.
During the Summit, the World Laureates Association will present a white paper titled 'Vision 2050 for a Scientific Civilisation,' outlining a framework for a scientific civilization that can be continuously examined by the global community.
Additionally, the Association will launch three flagship initiatives: a global university ranking, a science cities ranking, and an annual review of scientific developments.
The event will feature various forums, including the AI Science Forum, Transformational Technologies Forum, New Energy Forum, and Scientific Discovery Forum, among others. The Summit will conclude with the Young Scientists Forum and joint sessions with the World Governments Summit.
Distinguished participants include laureates such as Professor Omar Yaghi, Professor Joel Mokyr, Dr. John Clauser, Professor David W.C. MacMillan, Professor Ardem Patapoutian, and Professor Gregg L. Semenza, along with university leaders from around the world.
The World Laureates Association, comprising 187 distinguished scientists, aims to advance basic science, promote international scientific cooperation, and support emerging scientists, strengthening science as a shared global endeavor.