LEARNING DAYS
This year, the Dubai Future Forum’s signature learning experience expands into two full days – 17 & 20 November – dedicated to building the mindsets and skillsets needed to navigate an uncertain future. Through a dynamic mix of hands-on workshops, interactive labs, and collaborative sessions, participants will explore how to apply strategic foresight in practice – from scenario design and systems thinking to anticipatory governance and future literacy. Designed for futurists, policymakers, researchers, and change-makers, Learning Days 2025 focuses on learning through doing, fostering peer exchange, and encouraging cross-sector collaboration.
Learning Day 1 on 17 November sets the stage for the Dubai Future Forum by bringing together diverse thinkers, practitioners, and institutions to explore how foresight can inform action across critical global systems. Through focused symposia, participants will examine the role of futures thinking in advancing global security, reimagining strategic philanthropy, and strengthening resilience in the face of rising environmental and technological disruptions. The day will also highlight the power of anticipatory governance and collective intelligence in shaping more adaptive, equitable, and sustainable futures. From breakthrough approaches to cooling technologies and urban livability to innovative models for international cooperation and knowledge exchange, Learning Day 1 offers a hands-on introduction to how futures work translates into real-world transformation.
Foresight & Global Security
14:00 - 17:00
FIKER INSTITUTE, ALSERKAL AVENUE
This symposium examines the vital role of foresight in shaping security and international relations. Building on last year’s Future of Diplomacy roundtable and insights from previous editions of the Dubai Future Forum, it convenes diplomats, experts, and practitioners to explore how foresight can strengthen mediation, conflict resolution, and strategic resilience in an age of growing uncertainty. Held under the Chatham House Rule, the sessions encourage open exchange, collaborative reflection, and the sharing of practical experiences and use cases. Together, participants will consider emerging trends redefining the international order and the ways foresight can help navigate its complexities.
In Association With
SESSIONS
Setting the Scene: Which World Will We Inhabit?
Foresight In An Age of Uncertainty: Why Does It Matter?
Mediation and Conflict Resolution: What's the Role of Foresight?
Foresight in Action: Which Trends Are Shaping The International Order?
Register Your Interest
Foresight & Strategic Philanthropy
14:00 - 17:00
DFA AUDITORIUM, EMIRATES TOWERS
Strategic philanthropy is emerging as a transformative force, connecting long-term foresight with community-driven action. In alignment with the UAE’s Year of Community 2025, this symposium explores how philanthropy can be reimagined to drive sustainable and inclusive development in an era of rapid change. Bringing together futurists, philanthropists, public leaders, and government representatives, it examines how strategic philanthropy can foster equitable and resilient societies, empower communities through foresight, and strengthen collective capacity to shape the future. Through dialogue and collaboration, participants will explore new models of philanthropic practice that move beyond charity towards systemic, future-oriented impact.
In Association With
SESSIONS
Reimagining Philanthropy: How will Philanthropy Shape the Future of Humanity?
Future Skills: Can we Unlock Talent through Philanthropy and AI?
Futures from the Ground Up: How can Localised Solutions Empower Communities?
Register Your Interest
Foresight & Wearable Technologies
14:00 - 17:00
3D CLASSROOM, DUBAI FUTURE ACADEMY
By Invitation Only
This symposium explores how invisible wearables are redefining the boundaries of human potential. Bringing together scientists, academics, futurists, start-ups, and technology leaders, it examines the catalysts driving innovation and the barriers slowing widespread adoption. Participants will share real-world experiences of translating research into market-ready solutions, highlighting the path from scientific discovery to practical application. Discussions will focus on breakthrough technologies enabling seamless human–technology interaction, the scientific foundations of future interfaces, and the ethical and societal dimensions of these advances. Together, the sessions consider how invisible wearables could transform daily life and expand what it means to be human in the digital age.
In Association With
SESSIONS
Seamless Wearables: What Breakthroughs Will Power the Next Wave of Human Experience?
Deep Code of Seamlessness: Which Academic Discoveries Will Power Tomorrow's Wearables?
From Lab to Market: How Does Research Become Reality?
Foresight & Cooling Technologies
14:00 - 17:00
OUTDOOR GARDEN, DUBAI FUTURE LABS
By Invitation Only
This symposium examines how cities can remain liveable in an era of intensifying heat. Focusing on the challenges of the urban heat island effect, it combines human-centred foresight with advances in cooling technologies and resilient urban design. Through high-level dialogue, participants will explore breakthroughs in research, climate-responsive architecture, and strategic urban planning. They will share insights on translating innovation into practice, highlighting how science, technology, and policy intersect to shape cooler, more sustainable environments. Together, the sessions imagine how cities of the future can harness foresight and design to create healthier, more liveable communities in a warming world.
In Association With
SESSIONS
Resilience by Design: Can Cities Adapt Faster to Rising Heat?
The Heat Island: How is Urban Innovation Keeping Cities Cool?
Governing Heat: How are Cities Planning for Rising Temperatures?
Next-Gen Cooling: How is Cutting-edge Tech Redefining the Cities of Tomorrow?
How Do Scientific Discoveries Become City-Scale Solutions?
Frontiers of Science: How is Research Shaping Cooling In a Warming World?