Abu Dhabi: The inaugural Forbes Middle East Building the Future Summit commenced today at Berkeley, Abu Dhabi. The two-day event is organized in strategic partnership with the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, represented by the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, and Abu Dhabi’s Department of Municipalities and Transport, in collaboration with One Development.
According to Emirates News Agency, the summit gathers an exclusive group of real estate leaders, investors, innovators, and architects from across the region and globally. It serves as a platform to explore the future of smart cities, promote sustainable urban solutions, and highlight investment and development opportunities in the region’s real estate sector.
The opening day saw attendance from Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport; Eng. Mohamed Almansoori, Director General of the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme; Eng. Maysarah Mahmoud Eid, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre; and Ali Al Gebely, Founder and Chairman of ONE Development. Prominent industry leaders such as Amira Sajwani, Hassan Allam, and Rizwan Sajan also participated.
The day’s program included keynote speeches and panel discussions on smart cities and advanced infrastructure development, focusing on integrating luxury, hospitality, and entertainment. Topics ranged from interior design and mixed-use developments to green infrastructure and smart urban planning, emphasizing the role of effective policies and strategic partnerships in accelerating development.
Eng. Mohamed Almansoori highlighted housing as a fundamental pillar for cohesive communities, aligning with the UAE’s national vision for social cohesion. He pointed out the UAE’s global role through initiatives like the Urban Development Agenda Platform for Asia and the Pacific, promoting sustainable urbanization.
Ali Al Gebely emphasized the importance of the human experience in urban development. He announced the launch of DO Hotels, an AI-powered hospitality concept in partnership with Amr Diab, set to debut in Dubai in 2025. The integration of AI in urban development, he noted, is essential.
Khuloud Al Omian of Forbes Middle East underscored the summit’s role in advancing smart, efficient, and sustainable cities. She highlighted Abu Dhabi’s pursuit of a new urban model rooted in innovation and sustainability, aligning with the 2025 Year of Community declaration.
The day concluded with an award ceremony honoring influential real estate leaders shaping the Middle East’s economy. The summit will continue tomorrow with further sessions on real estate, urban planning, and investment trends, featuring global industry experts and decision-makers.
