Policymakers to discuss impact of urbanisation in UAE

Abu Dhabi - 10th World Urban Forum (WUF10) will bring over 20,000 international visitors representing more than 160 countries and more than 100 ministers.

City mayors, ministers, business leaders and other experts will gather in the Capital to share knowledge on smart cities of the future and examine the impact of rapid urbanisation and its implications for social, economic and environmental policies in communities, cities and towns.
Taking place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec) from February 8 to 13, the 10th World Urban Forum (WUF10) will bring over 20,000 international visitors representing more than 160 countries and more than 100 ministers.
This unique six-day forum will provide an opportunity to build and strengthen networks and deliver an opportunity to boost sustainable practices, encouraging a unified approach that accounts for the requirements of both developed and developing countries.
Under the theme 'Cities of Opportunities: Connecting Culture and Innovation', the forum is co-organised by the UN agency focused on sustainable urbanisation, UN-Habitat and the Department of Urban Planning and Transport (DMT).
The WUF10 aims to raise awareness on sustainable urbanisation in cities and liveability across the globe. The forum provides a platform for decision-makers, businesses, urban experts and academics to share their expertise and create sustainable urban development and smart cities of the future.
Events at the forum will include assemblies, dialogues, roundtable discussions, special sessions, side events, networking events, training events, caucus meetings, urban library, voices from cities, SDGs in action, urban cinema, sustainable urban development now and other urban talks.
Mohamed Al Khadar Al Ahmed, executive director of strategic affairs at DMT and general coordinator of the World Urban Forum, said: "As the first Arab city to host a WUF, efforts are being made to raise the profile of urban stakeholders from the region."
Maimunah Mohd Sharif, executive director of UN-Habitat, said: "We are delighted that Abu Dhabi is hosting this Tenth session of the World Urban Forum which is the largest global meeting on urbanisation. The forum is bringing together a wide range of compelling speakers including global thought leaders, investors, experts, governments and key influencers to discuss how to shape a better urban future. It promises to be a truly extraordinary meeting."
ismail@khaleejtimes.com

• Abu Dhabi