The Forbes 30/50 Summit, a pivotal event championing women’s achievements and fostering cross-generational mentorship, is set to return for its fourth iteration in Abu Dhabi from March 5-8, 2025, coinciding with International Women’s Day. This prestigious gathering aims to connect influential global leaders, including honorees from Forbes’ 30 Under 30 and 50 Over 50 lists, to forge impactful alliances and drive meaningful change. The summit’s location in Abu Dhabi, a vibrant hub of innovation and cultural exchange, provides a unique backdrop for this celebration of women’s leadership and entrepreneurship.
The 2025 Summit boasts a remarkable roster of speakers, representing a diverse spectrum of fields and experiences. Attendees will gain insights from accomplished individuals such as Marsai Martin, a young actress, producer, and entrepreneur; Freida Pinto, an acclaimed actress and producer; Alexis Ohanian, the co-founder of Reddit and a prominent venture capitalist; and Najlah Imad, a Paralympic gold medalist. The lineup also features Yusra Mardini, an Olympic swimmer and UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador; Elisa Bruno, CEO of Level Shoes; bestselling author Alka Joshi; and Reema Juffali, a professional racing driver and founder of Theeba Motorsport. The diverse array of speakers ensures a rich tapestry of perspectives, offering attendees a multi-faceted understanding of women’s contributions across various industries.
The summit’s agenda extends beyond inspiring speeches and presentations, encompassing interactive workshops and networking opportunities designed to foster collaborative learning and knowledge exchange. The Idea Forums, a structured component of the program, will provide attendees with a platform to actively engage in discussions on topics such as corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, investment, the creative economy, and social impact. These interactive sessions will facilitate peer-to-peer learning and empower participants to share their own expertise and experiences, enriching the overall summit experience.
Beyond the core programming, the Forbes 30/50 Summit will offer attendees a chance to immerse themselves in the rich culture of Abu Dhabi. Planned activities include tours of the historic city, offering a glimpse into the region’s heritage and traditions. A Desert Party at Al Wathba, featuring local vendors in a pop-up souk, will provide a unique opportunity to experience Emirati hospitality and craftsmanship. The culmination of the summit will be an International Women’s Day Awards Gala held at the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi, celebrating the remarkable achievements of women across the globe in a spectacular setting.
The Forbes 30/50 Summit is co-chaired by a trio of influential women: Mika Brzezinski, founder of “Know Your Value” and co-host of MSNBC’s Morning Joe; Maggie McGrath, ForbesWomen editor and senior editor at Forbes; and Huma Abedin, an MSNBC contributor and author. Their leadership underscores the summit’s commitment to amplifying women’s voices and providing a platform for meaningful dialogue on gender equality and empowerment. The summit serves as a symbolic headquarters for International Women’s Day, highlighting the social, economic, cultural, and political advancements made by women worldwide.
The Forbes 30/50 Summit is made possible through the generous support of its sponsors. Cisco serves as the presenting sponsor, while Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas provides support as the supporting sponsor. Experience Abu Dhabi, the destination marketing arm of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) acts as the host partner, showcasing the emirate’s commitment to fostering global dialogue and celebrating women’s achievements. The collaborative efforts of these sponsors ensure the summit’s success in providing a world-class platform for empowering women and advancing gender equality.
