Harvard World Model United Nations Dubai 2026

in collaboration with Learn with Leaders

Olympics of Model United Nations

Hosted by Gems Dubai American Academy

Harvard WorldMUN Dubai hero image

It’s more than a Conference. It’s a Global Movement.

About the Conference

Harvard World Model United Nations Dubai is a unique blend of high-level debate, cultural immersion, and social engagement, creating an environment where diverse perspectives are not only heard - but celebrated.

about

Through thought-provoking discussions, diplomatic collaboration, and hands-on experiences, participants explore real-world global issues and sharpen their skills in negotiation, public speaking, and leadership.

Recognized for its academic rigor and vibrant international community, WorldMUN is more than just a Model UN - it’s a life-changing experience that fosters empathy, understanding, and a commitment to global cooperation.

Through lively and informed debate, exciting social events, and a unique conference spirit, the World Model United Nations experience reaches across cultures and borders to inspire both cooperation and friendship.

Substantive

Substantive Excellence

Cultural

Cultural Connection

Delegate

Delegate Experience

Conference Details

In-person at

GEMS Dubai American Academy

Conference Dates

19 - 21 June 2026

Conference Fee

For all GEMS School Students: USD 400

For other School Students: USD 450

Duration

3 days

Eligibility

Grades 6 - 12

Certification

Certificate of Participation from Harvard World Model United Nations

Conference Objectives

Promote Global Awareness and Diplomacy

Encourage delegates to explore and understand pressing international issues through the lens of diplomacy and international cooperation.

Simulate Real-World International Decision-Making

Provide realistic simulations of UN bodies and multilateral organizations to help students understand the complexity of global governance.

conference objective

Foster Cross-Cultural Understanding

Create an inclusive environment that celebrates cultural diversity and builds lasting friendships across borders.

Develop Leadership and Communication Skills

Enhance participants’ abilities in negotiation, public speaking, collaboration, and critical thinking through committee sessions and delegate interactions.

Inspire Civic Engagement and Global Responsibility

Empower young leaders to return to their communities with a deeper sense of civic duty and a commitment to positive change.

Key Benefits for Students

Gain a deeper understanding of global issues, cultures, and international institutions.

Enhance negotiation, public speaking, and diplomacy skills through debates and resolutions.

Build leadership, teamwork, and collaboration skills in diverse, high-pressure settings.

Build a global network with peers across UAE, including future leaders and changemakers

Boost confidence, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving through immersive experiences.

Tentative Conference Schedule

Day 1
08:00 am - 09:00 am
Registrations
09:15 am - 11:00 am
Opening Ceremony
11:15 am - 11:45 am
Lunch Break
12:00 pm - 1:45 pm
Committee Session
2:00 pm - 2:15 pm
15 min break/feedback
2:15 pm - 3:45 pm
Committee Session
4:00 pm
15 mins feedback
Day 2
9:00 am - 10:45 am
Committee Sessions
11:00 am - 11:15 am
15 mins feedback
11:15 am - 11:45 am
Lunch Break
12:00 pm - 1:45 pm
Committee Session
2:00 pm - 2:15 pm
15 min break/feedback
2:15 pm - 3:45 pm
Committee Session
4:00 pm
15 mins feedback
Day 3
9:00 am - 10:45 am
Committee Sessions
11:00 am - 11:15 am
15 mins feedback
11:15 am - 11:45 am
Lunch Break
12:00 pm - 1:45 pm
Committee Session
2:00 pm - 2:15 pm
15 min break/feedback
2:15 pm - 4:00 pm
Closing Ceremony

World Model United Nations Committees

GA: Disarmament and International Security Committee (DISEC)

TOPIC: Cobalt Mining in the Congo

DISEC will address the human cost of cobalt mining in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where children and civilians are exploited under inhumane conditions. While cobalt is essential to the global tech economy, its extraction raises serious ethical and security concerns. Delegates will examine the international community’s role in enabling these practices and propose multilateral solutions to regulate supply chains, protect vulnerable communities, and ensure ethical resource governance.

GA: Economic and Financial Committee (ECOFIN)

TOPIC: International Monetary Fund Bailouts and their Consequences

ECOFIN will explore the effectiveness of IMF interventions in countries facing repeated financial crises. Through case studies of Pakistan, Egypt, and Côte d’Ivoire, delegates will assess whether IMF policies have fostered sustainable development or entrenched debt cycles. Using diverse economic metrics and methodologies, the committee will evaluate the long-term implications of IMF involvement and propose reforms to promote financial stability, equity, & accountability.

GA: Social, Humanitarian, and Cultural Committee (SOCHUM)

TOPIC: Healthcare Treatment and Stigmas Surroundings its Provision

SOCHUM will examine how cultural norms, legal restrictions, and economic barriers limit access to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) worldwide. With particular focus on marginalized populations, the committee will evaluate structural inequalities and propose inclusive policies that expand access to comprehensive SRHR education,services, and protections—especially in low-resource and conservative settings.

GA: Special Political and Decolonization Committee (SPECPOL)

TOPIC: Protecting and Preserving Biodiversity

SPECPOL will address the global biodiversity crisis, with wildlife populations declining by nearly 70% since 1970. Delegates will assess the root causes of ecosystem collapse—such as habitat destruction, climate change, and overexploitation—and debate solutions that reflect their nations’ ecological and geopolitical interests. The committee will work to develop cooperative strategies for preserving global biodiversity and securing a sustainable future.

GA: Legal Committee

TOPIC: Digital Learning and Educational Inequities

The Legal Committee will investigate how disparities in digital access and literacy widen global educational inequalities. Delegates will examine the legal responsibilities of governments and institutions in ensuring digital inclusion, especially for underserved communities. Topics include teacher training, student access, funding, and data privacy. The committee will develop rights-based frameworks to support equitable digital learning worldwide.

ECOSOC/RB: Commission for Social Development (CSocD)

TOPIC: Collectivized and Collaborative Action of Populations for the Sake of National Development

CSocD will explore how local, community-led approaches can drive effective poverty reduction. Drawing on models like the Harlem Children’s Zone, delegates will consider how systems-level interventions - coordinated across education, health, and economic support - can be adapted globally. The committee will assess the cultural, financial, and political challenges of implementing place-based strategies in diverse international contexts.

About
Harvard World Model United Nations

Harvard World Model United Nations (WorldMUN) is the world’s most diverse collegiate Model United Nations conference, bringing together thousands of university students from over 110 countries each year. With a mission to foster authentic cross-cultural connections, WorldMUN travels to a different international city annually, inspiring delegates to engage in global dialogue, diplomacy, and cultural exchange.

At the heart of WorldMUN is the WorldMUN Spirit—a guiding principle that encourages friendship, cooperation, and deeper understanding across borders. Past destinations have included Rome, Montreal, Panama City, Madrid, Paris, and Taipei, and the conference has featured keynote addresses by global leaders such as Pope Francis and King Felipe VI of Spain.

Led by a team of experienced student organizers from Harvard University, the conference combines academic excellence with immersive cultural experiences and impactful diplomacy. WorldMUN provides a platform for young leaders to explore international relations, debate pressing global issues, and build meaningful relationships that transcend geography.

In an ever-evolving global landscape, WorldMUN stands as a symbol of collaboration, cooperation, and hope for the next generation of changemakers

About
GEMS Dubai American Academy

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GEMS Dubai American Academy (DAA) is GEMS Education's flagship American school. Offering both an enriched American Curriculum and the International Baccalaureate Diploma to students from around the world, DAA prepares its students for success in the world's most prestigious universities and colleges.

DAA is the only American curriculum school in Dubai to receive the KHDA rating of Outstanding, and has received this rating since 2011.

With over 25 years of history and academic excellence, DAA is one of the most sought after American schools in Dubai. The school's outstanding heritage is coupled with its future-focused program which embeds creative design, cutting-edge robotics and digital at its core. Through teaching, learning and innovation, students develop a mastery of multiple literacies and fluencies to support genuine world-class learning, personal growth and future readiness. DAA offers a diverse range of extra-curricular, athletic, and leadership opportunities to enrich the holistic development of each student.

Know more about us:
https://www.gemsaa-dubai.com/