BATOOL GHAITH (ABU DHABI)
The United Arab Emirates is paving the way for a better future through innovative city planning that emphasizes sustainability and inclusivity. During the second day of the third edition of the Forbes Middle East Sustainability Leaders Summit, thought leaders gathered to share insights on transforming urban spaces to better serve communities while meeting ambitious climate goals.
Abdulla Mohamed Al Blooshi, Acting Director General of the Urban Planning and Permits Centre at the Department of Municipalities and Transport, emphasized the importance of data in creating smart cities. He explained that Abu Dhabi is harnessing data from various transportation and urban infrastructures to tackle challenges like congestion effectively, thereby enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
“The UAE is actively shifting the way cities are designed and managed,” said Al Blooshi, highlighting advancements such as smart transportation systems and digital twins, which create 3D visualizations of infrastructure and city models. This new approach allows for better planning and responsiveness to community needs.
Khaled Al Huraimel, Group CEO and Vice Chairman of BEEAH Group, took the conversation to the next level by outlining his company’s evolution from waste management to comprehensive smart city development. With operations stretching across the UAE, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, BEEAH is a shining example of leadership in sustainability, achieving a remarkable 93% landfill diversion rate in Sharjah—the highest in the Middle East.
New projects are also on the horizon. Khaled shared the vision for the Khalid Bin Sultan City in Sharjah, a sustainable, mixed-use urban center that will feature digital identities for residents, integrated services, renewable energy sources, and cutting-edge mobility solutions. This holistic approach marks a significant step towards incorporating environmental stewardship into everyday city life.
Additionally, Ahmed Baghoum, CEO of Masdar City, spotlighted the real-world implementations of sustainable urbanism. Since its inception in 2006, Masdar City has matured into a vibrant locale, accommodating over 25,000 residents and more than 1,800 companies, including the progressive Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence. Baghoum noted that ten buildings are already certified as net-zero, with plans for further developments to enhance office space and coworking environments.
The gathering not only underscores the UAE’s ambition to redefine urban living but also highlights the critical role of collaboration between the public and private sectors in realizing these goals. The ongoing dialogue at the Forbes Middle East Sustainability Leaders Summit is setting the stage for transformative climate solutions through innovative policy and cooperative endeavors.
As these ambitious projects take shape, the UAE continues to exemplify what it means to be a leader in sustainable urban development in the region and beyond.
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