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Dubai’s Urban Future Week highlighted strategies to reshape future cities through technology and innovation. The event was organized by the Museum of the Future in partnership with Dubai Municipality. It brought together global leaders, experts, and decision-makers to explore the future of resilient, technology-driven cities.

Held on November 10–11 at the Museum of the Future, the event attracted experts, academics, government representatives, private sector participants, and students from universities across the UAE.

H.E. Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, announced that the success of Urban Future Week reflects Dubai’s continued commitment to developing smart, sustainable, and human-centered cities. He said this aligns with the leadership’s vision to make Dubai a global model for smart city governance and innovation.

He revealed that Dubai Municipality will translate the event’s outcomes into actionable projects aimed at improving readiness for future challenges. This will include adopting predictive policies, expanding public-private collaboration, and using advanced digital tools to enhance municipal systems.

H.E. Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of Dubai Future Foundation, stated that the future of cities depends on bold innovations, not traditional solutions. He explained that Dubai’s vision focuses on five priorities:

  • AI-powered energy efficiency and intelligent grids
  • Cooling technologies and sustainable materials
  • Renewable water solutions and biodiversity preservation

He noted that Dubai aims to become a global testbed for sustainable, tech-driven city models that merge innovation with environmental balance.

Majed Al Mansoori, Executive Director of the Museum of the Future, reported that the two-day event helped strengthen collaboration to achieve tangible results. He said the next stage would focus on converting discussions into practical initiatives that improve life quality and environmental protection.

The event also hosted a lecture by Jordanian architect Sahel Al Hiyari, winner of the Great Arab Minds award for Architecture and Design. His talk explored how architecture shapes public spaces and connects people to their environment through design and intuition.

On the second day, sessions discussed digital cities, urban storytelling, and community design. Officials and experts from Dubai Municipality and other entities examined how digital technologies can drive flexible governance and foresight-driven urban planning.

Speakers emphasized the importance of collaboration between government, academia, and the private sector to build inclusive, sustainable urban environments.

Urban Future Week concluded with a ceremony honoring partners and participants. Dubai Municipality reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the city’s role as a global leader in smart governance, digital transformation, and sustainable urban innovation.