The Vision Golfe 2026 forum convened in Paris to strengthen economic cooperation between France and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Organized by Business France, the event brought together more than 1,200 participants, including five ministers and various public and private sector leaders. Consequently, the platform served as a venue for high-level dialogue and business engagements.
Trade between France and the GCC reached nearly 25 billion euros in 2025, reflecting strong economic relations. Meanwhile, the forum facilitated over 2,000 business-to-business meetings and featured 13 panel discussions with more than 80 speakers. These interactions aimed to expand bilateral trade and investment across multiple sectors.
High-Level Participation at Vision Golfe 2026
The event featured prominent officials from both regions, including French Minister for the Economy Roland Lescure and Saudi Arabia’s Vice Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Khalid bin Saleh Al-Mudaifer. Specifically, Al-Mudaifer outlined Saudi Arabia’s policy to develop mining as a strategic pillar of its economy. In addition, Mohammed Abdulrahman Al Hawi, Undersecretary at the UAE Ministry of Investment, highlighted the importance of UAE-France strategic partnerships.
Strategic Sectors and Bilateral Trade
Discussions during the forum spanned several critical areas, including energy, logistics, and smart cities. Notably, participants addressed water security and sustainable infrastructure as key priorities for long-term development. Furthermore, dedicated sessions focused on cooperation in space, cybersecurity, and defense technology.
The integration of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies also took center stage during the bilateral panels. Representatives from both regions explored opportunities for technology transfer, joint research, and talent development. As a result, these discussions laid the groundwork for future technological integration.
Key Agreements and Partnerships
During Vision Golfe 2026, several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed to formalize cooperation. For instance, French quantum computing firm Quandela signed a partnership with Mekdam Holding Group to develop quantum technologies in Qatar. Meanwhile, SEMMARIS and the Abu Dhabi Food Hub signed an agreement to strengthen agri-food supply chains.
In addition to these agreements, Global Health Stratalogues launched a strategic guide for international companies entering the Saudi health-tech market. This report was published in partnership with the Global Health Exhibition to provide market intelligence. Consequently, the publication highlighted the growing role of the forum in sectoral expertise.
Future Outlook for France-GCC Relations
The forum concluded with a shared commitment to long-term partnerships and economic stability. Organizers of Vision Golfe 2026 confirmed that the event supported bilateral dialogue and accelerated joint initiatives. Moving forward, both French and Gulf entities plan to implement the signed agreements and explore further investment opportunities.
