The World Economic Forum (WEF) in collaboration with the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) has officially launched the ‘Top 10 Emerging Technologies of 2025’ report, a landmark publication that highlights the most promising technologies expected to shape global industries, societies, and economies in the years ahead.
Unveiled during a high-level event hosted at the Museum of the Future in Dubai, the report reflects a shared commitment between the two institutions to drive forward-thinking innovation, strategic foresight, and technological advancement that serves the global public good. This year’s edition places a distinct emphasis on human-centric innovation, resilience, sustainability, and scalable impact.
Strategic Partnership for Global Innovation
This marks the second consecutive year that the WEF and DFF have partnered on this high-profile initiative. By combining WEF’s global research capacity and network with DFF’s regional innovation leadership, the joint report represents a synthesis of global trends, local insights, and future-oriented strategy.
Omar Sultan Al Olama, UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence and Managing Director of the Dubai Future Foundation, stated:
“The technologies highlighted in this report will not only define the next phase of digital transformation but also reshape entire economic systems and social contracts. Dubai remains committed to being a proactive laboratory for these global innovations.”
Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director of the World Economic Forum, added:
“Our collaboration with the Dubai Future Foundation is focused on ensuring emerging technologies are deployed responsibly and inclusively. The Top 10 list is a tool for decision-makers to prepare for what lies ahead.”
Key Themes and Selection Criteria
The technologies included in the 2025 list were evaluated based on four critical criteria:
- Potential to disrupt existing industries or create entirely new markets
- Scalability across borders and sectors
- Ability to address global challenges such as climate change, health, and food security
- Maturity and readiness for near-term adoption (within 3–5 years)
The selection was curated through a rigorous process involving input from global academic institutions, private sector leaders, government stakeholders, and WEF’s global network of technology experts and strategic partners.
The Top 10 Emerging Technologies of 2025
While the full report provides in-depth technical details, use cases, and forecasts for each item, the following technologies have been identified as transformative forces for the near future:
- AI-Designed Molecules for Drug Discovery
Artificial intelligence platforms capable of autonomously designing new compounds, accelerating pharmaceutical development and personalized medicine. - Generative AI for Advanced Industrial Design
AI-driven design tools that enable highly customized and efficient product development in aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing. - Zero-Knowledge Proofs for Data Privacy
A breakthrough in cryptography allowing data verification without revealing underlying information—critical for privacy in finance, healthcare, and identity management. - Next-Gen Battery Storage Systems
High-capacity, ultra-fast-charging batteries leveraging solid-state materials and novel chemistries to power electric mobility and renewable energy grids. - Decentralized Water Purification Technologies
Affordable and scalable systems capable of transforming wastewater and saltwater into potable water without the need for centralized infrastructure. - Quantum-Safe Encryption
Advanced encryption protocols designed to secure data against quantum computing threats, ensuring long-term cybersecurity. - Bioengineered Carbon Capture Materials
Genetically enhanced organisms and materials that passively absorb carbon dioxide, providing a new approach to climate mitigation. - Digital Twin Cities
High-fidelity digital replicas of entire urban environments, enabling predictive infrastructure management, urban planning, and disaster response. - Programmable Biomanufacturing Platforms
Biotech systems capable of on-demand production of proteins, enzymes, and biomaterials, disrupting traditional pharmaceutical and agricultural supply chains. - Neuromorphic Computing Chips
Hardware inspired by the structure of the human brain, offering faster, more energy-efficient AI processing and real-time learning capabilities.
Implications for Global Policy, Investment, and Industry
The report is intended as a strategic guide for governments, investors, corporations, and research institutionsnavigating the rapidly evolving landscape of technological innovation. It highlights the need for responsible governance models, cross-border cooperation, and agile regulatory frameworks to ensure that these technologies are harnessed for positive, equitable outcomes.
The publication also underscores the growing role of cities like Dubai as global testbeds for innovation, regulatory sandboxes, and platforms for public-private collaboration.
Conclusion
The ‘Top 10 Emerging Technologies of 2025’ report by the World Economic Forum and Dubai Future Foundation is a call to action. It invites global stakeholders to not only prepare for the future but to actively shape it—with technology as a driver of progress, equity, and resilience.
