Dubai Municipality outlines ambitious plans to boost sustainable urban living by 2040

In a recent meeting hosted by the Dubai Government Media Office, key officials from Dubai Municipality outlined the emirate’s progress and future plans aimed at enhancing its status as a global leader in various sectors. Acting Director General of Dubai Municipality, Engineer Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, highlighted the achievements that have placed Dubai at the forefront of global competitiveness indicators. This success is attributed to the strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai.

The session, part of the “Session with an Official” series, was attended by media leaders and editors-in-chief of prominent Emirati newspapers, focusing on the municipality’s sustainable infrastructure plans, housing initiatives, and the incorporation of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence.

During the meeting, bin Ghalita emphasised that Dubai has transformed from merely being a global city to becoming a model for future urban development. He noted that the municipality’s proactive approach aims to align with future objectives and initiatives by concentrating on human resources and crisis management capabilities.

Engineers from the municipality presented a range of projects designed to support the strategic goals outlined in the Dubai Plan 2033 and the Dubai Urban Master Plan 2040. Engineer Nasser Bou Shehab, Executive Director of the Planning and Governance Sector, remarked on the comprehensive framework that these plans offer, aiming to attract talent and enhance quality of life through diversified public services and housing options.

Among the significant infrastructure developments is the “Tasreef” project, described by Engineer Adel Al Marzouqi, Executive Director of the Waste and Sewerage Corporation, as the largest stormwater collection system in the region, valued at 30 billion dirhams. This initiative, alongside ongoing sewage projects worth 80 billion dirhams, is projected for completion by 2033.

In the realm of housing and social initiatives, Engineer Maryam Al Muhairi, Executive Director of the Building Regulation and Licensing Corporation, introduced the “Home is a Priority” initiative. This programme aims to provide integrated housing facilities to support Emirati families while reinforcing the social fabric of the community. The initiative aligns with the goals of the “Year of the Community” and seeks to enhance family stability.

Dr. Naseem Mohammed Rafi, Acting Executive Director of Environment, Health, and Safety, addressed food safety and sustainability. His department is implementing initiatives, such as “Safe Water for a Healthy Community,” to ensure potable water safety, particularly for senior citizens. He highlighted the scale of Dubai’s food importation, which amounts to nine million tons annually, necessitating rigorous safety inspections.

Saeed Ismail Al Hashmi, Acting Executive Director of Institutional Support Services, spoke about the importance of fostering partnerships with the private sector. He reported that Dubai Municipality’s public-private partnership initiatives are projected to total 28 billion dirhams from 2024 to 2026, spanning 13 key projects.

The conversation also turned to Dubai’s recreational facilities, with Badr Anouhi, Executive Director of Public Facilities Corporation, discussing ongoing efforts to enhance green spaces and public amenities. His mention of the “Community Majlis” project and upgrades to beaches like Jumeirah Beach illustrated the municipality’s commitment to community-oriented development.

Overall, the meeting underscored how the collective efforts of Dubai Municipality, guided by the emirate’s leadership, aim to not only position Dubai as a top-tier global city but also ensure it remains an exemplary model for sustainable urban living.

Source: Noah Wire Services