WGS 2026: How Cities Around the World Are Competing for Talent and Investment
Cities around the world are competing harder than ever to attract skilled workers and investment. Talent and capital are now seen as essential for economic growth, innovation, and long-term success. Governments are changing laws, improving digital systems, and offering incentives to make their cities more attractive to global professionals and businesses.
This global competition is a key topic at the World Governments Summit 2026 (WGS 2026) in Dubai. Leaders, policymakers, and business executives have gathered to discuss how cities and governments can shape the future by using smart economic strategies.
Makhtar Diop, Managing Director of the International Finance Corporation, said at WGS 2026 that countries must combine strong infrastructure with effective policy reforms to create real economic value. This message reflects how governments are moving beyond traditional models and focusing on innovation-led growth.
The Middle East’s Strategy
Dubai
Dubai has built a clear and long-term economic strategy focused on becoming a knowledge-based economy. Innovation, technology, and talent attraction are at the center of this vision.
One of the main pillars is the UAE’s National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031. This strategy aims to position the country as a global leader in AI. It includes laws for the safe use of AI, smart digital systems across government departments, and technology-driven public services that improve efficiency and economic impact.
To attract global talent, Dubai has expanded its Golden Visa program. This offers long-term residency to investors, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled professionals, especially in areas such as AI, sustainability, and advanced technology.
Dubai has also introduced the Blue Residency Visa, which targets experts working in clean energy and environmental fields. This supports the UAE’s wider goal of economic diversification and sustainable growth.
Digital technology plays a major role in Dubai’s strategy. AI-powered platforms make visa applications, licensing, and business setup faster and more efficient. These systems reduce paperwork and make the city more business-friendly.
From a financial perspective, Dubai remains attractive to global investors. The city offers 0% personal income tax and a 9% corporate tax, with additional incentives for companies operating in free zones. These policies help bring capital into the region.
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, said at WGS 2026 that governments must move from operating businesses themselves to acting as enablers and regulators, allowing the private sector to drive innovation.
Riyadh
Riyadh is following a similar path under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to transform the kingdom into a diversified and modern economy.
One of Riyadh’s key initiatives is the Regional Headquarters Program. This offers multinational companies a 0% tax rate for 30 years if they establish their regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia. Investor visas have also been simplified, removing the need for local sponsors.
Saudi Arabia has introduced Premium Residency options for wealthy individuals and specialists, including AI experts. These programs offer permanent residency, the right to own property, and family sponsorship benefits.
The kingdom’s National Strategy for Data and AI aims to attract large-scale investment and train thousands of specialists. Special economic zones support this goal by offering tax exemptions, flexible labor rules, and modern infrastructure.
Saudi Arabia has also invested heavily in digital systems. Tools like e-invoicing and real-time financial reporting improve transparency and make it easier for companies to operate. These reforms have helped attract investment into technology, finance, and innovation-driven sectors.
WGS 2026: A Global Platform
The World Governments Summit 2026, held in Dubai from February 3 to 5, brings together more than 35 heads of state, 150 governments, and 500 ministers. The theme, “Shaping Future Governments,” highlights the importance of policy innovation, economic resilience, and AI-driven transformation.
Key discussions focus on how international cooperation can help attract talent while ensuring long-term economic sustainability.
Global Cities Join the Competition
Singapore
Singapore continues to position itself as a global technology and finance hub. Its National AI Strategy 2.0 aims to triple the country’s AI workforce through global talent mobility, grants, and partnerships.
The Tech.Pass visa allows top tech professionals to work and start businesses in Singapore. The country’s 17% corporate tax rate, along with strong R&D incentives, makes it attractive to global companies.
Digital programs like the GenAI Sandbox help small and medium-sized businesses adopt AI, strengthening Singapore’s innovation ecosystem.
Seoul
Seoul has launched initiatives such as the Seoul Talent Hub, which connects global professionals in AI and biotechnology with local companies. The program offers visa assistance and settlement support to help foreign workers integrate smoothly.
At the national level, South Korea’s K-Tech Pass provides long-term visas and income tax reductions of up to 50% for AI specialists. Digital platforms also help companies identify and recruit international talent.
Dublin
Dublin benefits from Ireland’s strong position within the European Union. Under the National AI Strategy Refresh 2024, Ireland focuses on research centers and regulatory sandboxes to attract AI innovators.
IDA Ireland promotes the country’s 12.5% corporate tax rate, skilled workforce, and access to the EU market. Recent visa reforms have also made it easier for entrepreneurs and researchers to move to Ireland.
A Shared Future
These cities show a global trend: economic success increasingly depends on attracting talent while maintaining sustainability. While competition is intense, the discussions at WGS 2026 suggest that collaboration and shared frameworks could help balance growth with long-term stability—leading to broader and more inclusive prosperity worldwide.
Published: 4th February 2026
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