Riyadh, November 1, 2024 — The eighth annual Future Investment Initiative (FII) concluded yesterday, marking yet another milestone in global innovation and investment discourse. Held in Riyadh from October 29 to 31 under the theme “Infinite Horizons: Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow,” the event brought together a formidable array of global leaders, investors, innovators, and visionaries, all united by a shared goal: exploring new frontiers in investment, technological advancement, and sustainable development.
In his opening remarks, FII Institute chief executive and board member Richard Attias set a powerful tone, stressing the conference’s role in “breaking traditional boundaries” and expanding humanity’s potential. Attias emphasized the urgent need to address pressing global issues—ranging from governance and healthcare to rising living costs—through collaborative and innovative solutions. His call to action framed the event’s conversations and sessions, which tackled some of the world’s most challenging economic and social issues.
A core concept explored during the FII was that of megaregions—large, interconnected economic zones poised to become transformative centers of opportunity. These sprawling zones, connected by advanced infrastructure and innovation-driven ecosystems, were discussed as engines of economic development and new centers of growth in the coming decades. FII speakers highlighted the critical role of investment capital in fueling these megaregions, particularly through next-generation infrastructure and breakthrough technological solutions. The transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) was a focal point, with experts predicting that AI could add up to $13 trillion to the global economy by 2030. This potential, delegates discussed, underscores AI’s pivotal role in reshaping industries and creating jobs, while also requiring frameworks to mitigate its disruptive impacts.
Throughout the three-day event, a series of high-impact initiatives were launched, each aimed at addressing critical global issues and creating tangible improvements in people’s lives. Among the standout initiatives was a global project focused on enabling AI in emerging markets, a development expected to enhance economic participation and technological equity. Also announced was Ocean Central, an innovative digital platform developed by Wave and powered by the FII Institute. This platform aggregates data on ocean health, providing a comprehensive, real-time view essential for global efforts to regenerate oceans and sustain marine ecosystems. Additionally, FII unveiled numerous investment initiatives aimed at supporting pioneering projects in renewable energy, healthcare, and technology. These projects reflect a commitment to sustainable development and a proactive response to environmental challenges.
The FII Institute further announced three major initiatives under its ambitious vision: AI Inclusive, Human Health, and Wave for the Ocean. These initiatives are designed to impact millions of lives by improving healthcare access, lowering medical costs, and fostering sustainable practices. For instance, the Human Health initiative promises to provide free health checks and reduce the financial burdens of healthcare for communities worldwide, while Wave for the Ocean reinforces a commitment to environmental stewardship.
To guide strategic decision-making and future investments, the FII Institute also released two critical reports. The FII PRIORITY Compass collates insights from over 22,000 individuals across 21 countries, underscoring governance, healthcare, and cost of living as top global priorities. Meanwhile, the Global Future of Work Compass surveyed more than 1,300 individuals and 200 companies across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This report reveals that 50% of respondents perceive advanced technology as disruptive, while 46% feel that youth lack adequate training in tech skills—highlighting the urgent need for education reform and upskilling initiatives to build a future-ready workforce.
The FII’s 2024 edition served as a testament to the event’s evolving role in shaping the global economic and social landscape. By bringing together thought leaders and decision-makers to address shared challenges, FII continues to underscore the importance of collaborative innovation and forward-thinking investment. The discussions, initiatives, and reports emerging from this year’s conference serve as a blueprint for a world seeking sustainable growth and prosperity. As Attias remarked, the FII stands as a beacon of possibility and purpose, encouraging the world to view the future not just as a continuation of the present, but as an “infinite horizon” filled with the promise of positive change.
