The second edition of the AlUla Conference for Emerging Market Economies 2026 commenced on Friday in AlUla Governorate, bringing together top global economic policymakers to discuss the evolving international economic landscape and its implications for emerging and developing nations.
The two-day conference is being jointly organized by the Ministry of Finance in partnership with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The event is being attended by Saudi Minister of Finance Mohammed Aljadaan, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, along with a high-level gathering of economic decision-makers, finance ministers, central bank governors, leaders of international financial institutions, and selected experts from across the world.
Held under the theme “Policies Amid a Reset of the International Trade and Financial Systems,” the conference focuses on the rapid and far-reaching transformations currently shaping the global economy. Discussions are centered on the growing challenges and emerging opportunities for emerging market economies, particularly in the areas of international trade, monetary and financial systems, and macroeconomic policy frameworks.
Participants at the conference highlighted that the global economic environment is increasingly marked by fragmentation, uncertainty, and heightened challenges, making coordinated global policy action essential. They emphasized that multilateral international cooperation must be strengthened to effectively address economic pressures and support sustainable growth in emerging and developing economies.
Speakers also stressed that international partnerships are now more critical than ever, as emerging markets face complex external shocks, changing trade dynamics, and evolving financial conditions that require collective and practical policy responses.
The conference underscored that the primary purpose of the discussions is not only to share insights but also to exchange practical experiences in economic policymaking. Participants reiterated the need to focus on realistic implementation of solutions that serve the broader public good, while helping emerging economies build resilience and develop effective strategies to respond to global economic transitions.
The AlUla Conference is expected to serve as an important platform for shaping both collective and individual responses of emerging market economies to the rapidly shifting global trade and financial order, while fostering stronger coordination between governments and international financial institutions.
