Under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Turki bin Faisal bin Abdulaziz, Chairman of the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies, and Saudi Cultural Attaché to the United States and Canada, Dr. Tahani Al-Eissa Al-Biz, the Gulf Conference at Harvard University 2025 concluded yesterday. This prestigious event was organized by the Gulf Students Association and took place at the Cambridge campus in Massachusetts.
Musa bin Mohammed Al-Zailai, the President of the Gulf Students Association at Harvard University, highlighted that the Gulf Conference serves as a distinguished annual platform that unites various Gulf and international leaders across diverse fields. It aims to address critical developmental and strategic issues pertinent to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, operating under the theme “Honoring Heritage, Inspiring Innovation.” He emphasized that the conference sought to foster constructive dialogue about the region’s future, aiming to build bridges of communication and collaboration among academic and professional elites from the Gulf and the United States. Additionally, it aimed to spotlight the cultural and developmental identity of the region to the global community.
Al-Zailai affirmed that the association intends to cultivate a positive image of Gulf states in international academic circles through the conference. This initiative is designed to establish a sustainable network of young Gulf talents, enhance research and academic collaboration, and encourage student initiatives in an intellectually stimulating environment, exemplified by institutions like Harvard University.
The conference featured an extensive agenda with over 15 sessions that explored various topics including the role of innovation in entrepreneurship and investment, science and technology, healthcare, culture and arts, law, sports, public policy, nonprofit work, and energy. Participants included officials and academics from both the Gulf countries and the United States, allowing for a rich exchange of ideas and experiences.
Overall, the Gulf Conference at Harvard not only served as a conduit for discussing pressing global issues, but also as a means of showcasing the vibrant cultural tapestry of the Gulf region. This gathering is a testament to the commitment of the Gulf Students Association to promote intellectual engagement and cooperation in an increasingly interconnected world.
