Save the Date: Understanding Risk (UR) Oct. 19-23, 2026

We are thrilled to announce that for the first time, the Understanding Risk Global Forum 2026 (UR26) will take place in the Middle East region, happening in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This landmark forum will be co-hosted by the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR) and the Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre Abu Dhabi (ADCMC). 

Stay tuned for more details as we prepare to bring the global UR Community together in Abu Dhabi to explore innovation, foresight, and collaboration for a more resilient future. 

Registration and calls for proposals will open in early 2026.  If you are interested in partnering with UR26, please contact us at ur26@understandrisk.org 

UR26 Themes are expected to include:

Technology for Resilience | Sustainability, Climate Action and Environmental Resilience | Preparedness, Response, and Future-Ready Systems | Disaster Recovery Preparedness and the Disaster-Conflict Nexus | Human-Centered Resilience and Risk Communication | Risk Financing, Business Continuity, and Economic Resilience 

Since 2010, the Understanding Risk (UR) Community has been advancing global resilience by sharing cutting-edge technologies, knowledge, and best practices. Today, the community spans over 200 countries and includes over 4,600 organizations — from governments, multilateral institutions, and the private sector to NGOs, academia, research bodies, community groups, and civil society. 

Since 2010, UR has hosted 30 global, regional and thematic forums uniting experts and communities through science, creativity, and collaboration. These forums have provided an opportunity to explore ideas, innovation, and resilience in action.