The University of Utah Office for Global Engagement and the Middle East Center invite campus and community members interested in global affairs to attend the Gulf States Forum, a one-day event exploring diplomacy, economic diversification, natural resources, and innovation across the Gulf region.

The forum will take place Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026, beginning at 9 a.m. Several lectures and discussions are scheduled throughout the day, and the event will culminate with the Global U Alumni Impact dinner, recognizing an alumnus whose career has made a significant international impact.

Designed to foster dialogue among academic, government, industry, and community leaders, the Gulf States Forum will examine opportunities for collaboration on issues shaping the future of the Gulf Region and its partnerships with the United States.

The day’s program includes a Keynote address by His Excellency Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and a 1991 University of Utah graduate.

Throughout more than three decades of diplomatic service, AlBudaiwi has advanced international cooperation, regional stability, and global dialogue, culminating in his leadership of the GCC, one of the world’s most influential regional organizations representing more than 60 million people across six Gulf nations. His career reflects the University of Utah’s commitment to preparing graduates to lead and serve on the global stage.

Panel discussions and guest lectures by distinguished guests will follow, as will lunch and opportunities for networking. A full schedule of events is available at global.utah.edu/gulfstatesforum. Participants are welcome to attend the full day or select sessions based on their interests.

That evening, the Global U Alumni Impact Dinner at the Natural History Museum of Utah will celebrate the University’s commitment to global engagement and recognize individuals and organizations advancing international collaboration. The evening will feature the presentation of the inaugural Global U Alumni Impact Award to AlBudaiwi.

Dinner tickets are $60/guest ($15 for current UofU students), with all proceeds benefiting the University of Utah International Students Emergency Fund, which provides financial assistance to international students facing unexpected financial emergencies.