MoF hosts forum to explore future of UAE financial sector

Sajjad Ahmad, Deputy Business Editor

The Ministry of Finance (MoF) on Thursday organised the 2nd edition of the Financial Media Forum under the theme “Shaping the Future of the Financial Sector: The Balance Between Influence and Responsibility”. Held in Dubai, the event brought together high-profile government and media leaders as well as over 100 professionals, students, and financial and economic experts.

The forum comes at a time when the world is experiencing rapid transformations in the global economy, highlighting the growing importance of the media in supporting financial transparency and transmitting and analysing economic data. It aimed to enhance financial awareness across all segments of society, in line with the country’s vision for sustainable economic development.

The event also aimed to strengthen collaboration with media entities, emphasising the importance of developing impactful financial content that promotes awareness and helps achieve the country’s financial goals.

Mohamed Bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, said: “The Ministry of Finance is committed to establishing a strategic financial approach that enhances resource management efficiency, in line with global economic developments, as well as to formulating flexible, sustainable financial policies that support the country’s development goals.

“We are also working to build an integrated financial system driven by transparency, digital transformation, and robust partnerships between the public and private sectors to drive economic growth and ensure long-term financial stability,” the Minister added.

He stated: “The second edition of the Financial Media Forum is one of the key strategic initiatives aiming to strengthen the relationship between the financial system and national media. We strongly believe that the media plays an essential role in enhancing financial literacy and effectively communicating government policies to the public.”

Al Hussaini went on to say: “The forum provides an ideal platform for exchanging insights and expertise, foreseeing the future of the financial sector, and building a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead. It operates within a framework of transparency and professionalism that aligns with the UAE’s vision for financial and economic leadership. The event also reaffirms our commitment to promoting financial awareness across all segments of society, which has become a foundational pillar for building responsible financial behaviour that can help drive sustainability, and inclusive growth forward.”

The gathering was attended by Younis Haji AlKhoori, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance; Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council; and Mohammed Al Hammadi, Director-General of the Emirates News Agency (WAM), as well as several finance department directors from local governments and senior officials from local universities and media agencies.

In his opening speech, Younis Haji AlKhoori emphasised that the Ministry of Finance is committed to promoting financial transparency and strengthening cooperation with various sectors to achieve sustainable economic growth in the UAE.

AlKhoori highlighted that hosting the forum amidst rapid global economic transformations reflects the government’s keenness to enhance its tools and forecast the financial future based on clear, scientific foundations, in line with the wise leadership’s vision and the country’s long-term aspirations.

He stated, “The Ministry of Finance is forging ahead based on a comprehensive strategic vision aimed at achieving financial sustainability, enhancing government spending efficiency, promoting financial integration, and developing flexible legislation.”

He explained that striking a balance between stimulating growth and ensuring sound financial management is a top priority for the Ministry, which is why the Ministry is adopting modern tools and accelerating digital transformation within the financial sector.

He also stressed the importance of collaborating with the private sector and empowering national talents to participate in international financial organisations.

He concluded by reaffirming that the Financial Media Forum has become a platform for promoting dialogue on the future of the financial sector, adding, “The media has evolved into a vital partner in supporting transparency and educating the public on financial policies.”

He emphasised that the media plays a pivotal role not only in reinforcing the country’s efforts to achieve financial transparency but also in providing the public with objective, professional insights into financial trends and policies.

AlKhoori voiced his hopes that the discussions during the forum will help strengthen the stability and growth of the national financial sector and solidify transparency and sustainability as key pillars in the UAE’s ambitious journey toward building a prosperous and sustainable economic future.