As economic growth and political reforms continue in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, many of those countries have been compelled to accelerate structural reforms to diversify their economies away from hydrocarbons, boost the role of the private sector and create jobs for rapidly growing labor forces. A clear road map that identifies priorities and policies is essential. But it all can't be done at once, and reform is a lengthy trial-and-error process. This session will examine how innovation in financial policy, technology and government is paving the way for growth in these modernizing economies. Key questions:

- How will shifts in oil prices and supply affect the region's commitment to economic diversification?
- What lessons can be learned from modernizing economies across the globe?
- How will the MENA region meet the human capital demands from expanding non-oil industries?

Speakers
- Yousef Al Otaiba, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the United States
- His Highness Prince Fahad Al Saud, Founder and CEO, NA3AM
- Sheikh Meshal bin Hamad Al Thani, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the United States
- Mohammad Barraj, Managing Director, Guggenheim KBBO Partners