Vision Golfe 2026 reinforced its role as a leading platform for France-GCC economic cooperation, bringing together more than 1,200 participants, including ministers, policymakers and business leaders in Paris. 

Energy and sustainable infrastructure emerged as key themes, reflecting growing collaboration between France and Gulf countries on strategic sectors critical to long-term economic growth and resilience.

The forum, organised by Business France, featured 13 high-level panel discussions, more than 80 speakers and over 2,000 business-to-business meetings. 

French and Gulf officials highlighted the expanding scope of bilateral cooperation, with trade between France and GCC countries reaching nearly €25 billion in 2025.

Energy discussions focused on accelerating the transition to sustainable and resilient systems while supporting industrial growth across the region. 

Participants explored opportunities for investment, technology transfer and innovation in energy infrastructure, alongside related sectors such as water security, advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies.

Saudi Arabia’s Vice Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Khalid Al-Mudaifer, outlined the Kingdom’s efforts to develop mining as a strategic pillar of economic diversification, supporting the growing demand for critical minerals essential to energy transition technologies. 

Discussions also addressed the role of public-private partnerships in advancing sustainable infrastructure and resource management.

Water security was identified as a major regional priority, with experts highlighting innovation and infrastructure resilience as vital to supporting future energy and economic needs. 

Industry leaders noted that stronger France-GCC cooperation can accelerate the development of sustainable solutions and create long-term environmental and economic value.