Dubai played host to the prestigious Asian Business Leadership Forum (ABLF) on November 6, as it celebrated its 12th anniversary with a grand event at Jumeirah Emirates Towers. The forum, known for recognizing leadership excellence across Asia, brought together influential figures from business, politics, and industry under the theme “Inclusive Leadership in an Interconnected World: Driving Progress and Sustainability through Tolerance.”
A Special Tribute to UAE’s ‘Year of Tolerance’
This year’s ABLF held special significance as it aligned with the UAE’s ‘Year of Tolerance,’ reinforcing the nation’s commitment to fostering global unity. The event was held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, UAE’s Minister of Tolerance, and in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Economy.
For the first time in ABLF’s history, the forum honored a guest nation: India, acknowledging the country’s strong economic and diplomatic ties with the UAE. S. Jaishankar, India’s Minister of External Affairs, highlighted the growing strategic partnership between the two nations, calling for deeper business collaboration.
Distinguished Guests and Key Business Leaders in Attendance
The event saw participation from a high-profile Indian delegation led by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, further strengthening India’s presence at the forum. Some of India’s most prominent business leaders were present, including:
- Kumar Mangalam Birla (Aditya Birla Group)
- Gopichand P. Hinduja (Hinduja Group)
- Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla (Serum Institute of India)
- Shobhana Bhartia (HT Media)
Other leading figures in global business, finance, and government attended, making the 12th edition of ABLF a powerful networking and knowledge-sharing platform.
Honoring Visionary Leaders with ABLF Awards
A major highlight of the evening was the prestigious ABLF Awards, recognizing leaders who have made outstanding contributions in their respective fields. This year’s winners included:
- Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla, founder of the Serum Institute of India, who was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to the pharmaceutical industry.
- Colm McLoughlin, Executive Vice Chairman & CEO of Dubai Duty Free, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his leadership in the retail sector.
These awards reflected ABLF’s mission to celebrate individuals who drive innovation, economic growth, and societal progress in Asia.
ABLF’s Growing Impact on Global Leadership
Since its inception in 2007, the Asian Business Leadership Forum has been instrumental in fostering dialogue among business and political leaders across Asia. Over the years, it has evolved into a key platform for cross-border collaboration, policy discussions, and leadership development.
With its 12th anniversary celebration, the ABLF reinforced its commitment to promoting inclusive leadership, economic sustainability, and international cooperation. The forum continues to be a catalyst for change, uniting influential minds to shape a better future for Asia and beyond.
