The Rihla Initiative for Green Economic Growth, launched by the Bourse & Bazaar Foundation in September 2024, brings together policy, business, and technical leaders from the Gulf3 (Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE) and the Global South. The initiative focuses on developing green industrial policies and attracting investment from the Gulf to support sustainable development in 18 countries across four regions. In partnership with CRISP, it uses simulation games to help young professionals explore policy options, understand their impacts, and improve strategies for climate action and economic growth. Named after the famous travelogue The Rihla by Ibn Battuta, the project aims to strengthen historical connections between the Gulf and the Global South while shaping a sustainable future.
Project Goals
The Rihla Initiative aims to empower young professionals from the Gulf and the Global South to collaboratively develop practical green economic policies, fostering cross-regional cooperation to tackle climate challenges and drive sustainable development. The initiative focuses on equipping participants with the skills to create climate policies tailored to their region’s unique environmental and economic needs. It encourages cross-border collaboration to align regional policies with Gulf-led investment strategies, fostering cooperation and shared solutions. Additionally, the initiative supports the development of investment-ready policy frameworks and innovative models that can be implemented in real-world settings to accelerate green growth. A key goal is to build a lasting network of young professionals who will continue working together on climate policies and green investment strategies, ensuring long-term engagement and impact.
Target Group(s)
Young professionals (aged 25–40) from the Gulf and the Global South
Planned Outcomes/Achievements
CRISP’s role in the Rihla Initiative is to design and implement simulation games that drive green economic growth by fostering cooperation between the Gulf and the Global South. The simulation games will enhance the participants’ collaboration skills, leadership, and decision-making in complex environments, enabling them to influence climate policy and investment. It will also empower participants to develop tailored regional policies while promoting cross-regional collaboration that aligns with Gulf-led investments. In addition to establishing a lasting network of young professionals, fostering ongoing partnerships and dialogue on green policies. Ultimately, the simulation game supports the initiative’s broader goal of advancing sustainable growth, regional stability, and climate resilience.
