The UAE presents its experience in developing future cities at the BRICS Forum
New Delhi, June 19 / WAM / The UAE, represented by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, participated in the work of the 13th BRICS Urban Forum, which was hosted by New Delhi, under the slogan “Cities for Humanity: BRICS Cooperation for a Comprehensive and Resilient Urban Future,” where the country reviewed its pioneering experience in developing sustainable and resilient cities that are human-centered and benefit from advanced technologies and data to support urban planning and decision-making.
The UAE delegation was headed by His Excellency Sheikh Nasser bin Majid Al Qasimi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Infrastructure and Transport Regulation Sector, and included Dr. Engineer Saif Al Qaidi, Director of the Urban Planning Department, and Engineer Muhammad Fikri, Director of the Land Transport Affairs Department.
During the forum, His Excellency Sheikh Nasser bin Majid Al Qasimi delivered the UAE’s national statement, stressing that the country has succeeded in establishing an integrated urban model that balances economic growth, sustainability and quality of life, based on proactive planning, digital transformation and innovation, which enhances the readiness of cities to keep pace with future changes and supports achieving the goals of “We are the Emirates 2031.”
His Excellency pointed out that the UAE continues to develop an advanced urban planning system that relies on data and modern technologies, through national urban frameworks, the National Urban Observatory, and digital planning platforms, in addition to employing geospatial technologies and artificial intelligence to support decision-making and anticipate the future needs of communities.
The UAE delegation also reviewed the role of the National Urban Observatory as an advanced national platform that supports urban decision-making by analyzing spatial data and indicators and monitoring urban growth trends, which enhances the efficiency of planning and investment in infrastructure and services, and contributes to building more sustainable and resilient cities.
Within the framework of the forum sessions, Dr. Engineer Saif Al-Qaidi participated in the first discussion session entitled “Building Comprehensive Pathways for Resilient and Just Cities,” where he reviewed the UAE’s experience in supporting comprehensive urban growth by employing geographic information systems and urban indicators to evaluate the distribution of community services and facilities, identify development needs, and promote equitable access to services and infrastructure.
He also highlighted the role of the National Urban Observatory and digital planning platforms in supporting evidence-based planning, raising the efficiency of city management, and enhancing urban resilience and quality of life, in a way that supports building more sustainable and inclusive societies.
On the sidelines of the forum, the UAE delegation held a bilateral meeting with the Russian delegation, during which ways were discussed to enhance cooperation and exchange experiences in the fields of urban planning and sustainable development, and to review best practices in developing smart cities and the use of digital technologies and spatial data to support the urban planning system.
The forum concluded its work with the adoption of the final declaration, which emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation between BRICS countries in the areas of sustainable urban development, urban resilience and innovation. It also witnessed the adoption of the establishment of the “BRICS Urban Research and Knowledge Network” as an institutional platform for exchanging knowledge, expertise and applied research among member states.
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