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The World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have reached an agreement to host the 2029 Annual Meetings in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The decision was made after the World Bank President, Ajay Banga, and the IMF Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva, signed the agreement in Bangkok, Thailand, during the Annual IMF/World Bank meetings.

Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, the UAE's Minister of State for Financial Affairs, and Khaled Mohamed Balama, the Governor of the Central Bank of the UAE, also signed the document for the UAE. During the signing ceremony, Banga expressed his excitement about the UAE hosting the event, stating that he is delighted that Abu Dhabi is the chosen destination. He also highlighted the significance of the UAE hosting the Annual Meetings, which coincidentally hosts the World Bank's Knowledge Hub on Gender.

Georgieva echoed Banga's sentiment, emphasizing the rapid transformation of the UAE and its memorable experiences for participants. She reminded officials of the high standards set by Thailand during their recent meetings. The UAE's Minister of State for Financial Affairs expressed the country's appreciation for the opportunity and its intention to welcome IMF/World Bank members back to the UAE after a 26-year absence.

The Governor of the Central Bank of the UAE also acknowledged the hosting of the Annual Meetings as a vote of confidence in the UAE's economy and business model. The Board of Governors of the IMF/World Bank had previously voted in April 2026 to select Abu Dhabi as the host country for the October 2029 meetings.