Asia Pacific Cities Summit And Mayors’ Forum 2025: Sheikh Hamdan Highlights Dubai's Urban Development Leadership
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, attended the opening of the 2025 Asia Pacific Cities Summit (2025APCS) and Mayors’ Forum at Expo City Dubai. This event is a major global gathering of mayors, city leaders, and business decision-makers. Held at the Dubai Exhibition Centre until 29 October, it unites over 150 mayors and representatives from more than 350 cities to discuss sustainable urban development.
The summit's opening session highlighted Dubai's growth under visionary leadership, featuring strategies like the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and UAE Centennial Plan 2071. Key speakers included Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita from Dubai Municipality and Issam Kazim from DCTCM. They discussed Dubai’s governance model focused on talent attraction and collaboration.
Sheikh Hamdan stated that hosting this summit underscores Dubai’s status as a global hub for urban dialogue. The event aims to advance innovative solutions for sustainable, inclusive, and smart cities. Leaders from over 350 cities participated, reflecting global confidence in Dubai’s development journey and leadership in building an integrated urban model through collaboration.
During his visit, Sheikh Hamdan met with delegates including Yuriko Koike, Governor of Tokyo. He emphasised cooperation amid rapid urban expansion. Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti noted that Dubai serves as an ideal platform for exchanging experiences and shaping a sustainable future due to its forward-looking urban development model.
The summit explores global priorities such as affordable housing, urban heat resilience, data-intelligent systems, and nature-based city development approaches. This marks the first time the event is hosted in the Middle East, facilitated by Expo City Dubai with support from The Executive Council of Dubai.
Sheikh Hamdan highlighted that His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s vision has laid foundations for a future-ready city centred on people, knowledge, and innovation. This vision is evident in achievements in urban planning and digital infrastructure positioning Dubai among the world’s most future-prepared cities.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
Sheikh Hamdan reiterated commitment to making Dubai a platform for city leaders to explore solutions balancing economic development with environmental sustainability. He stressed strengthening Dubai’s position as a leading centre for developing future city models prioritising people and anticipating future generations' needs.
Councillor Adrian Schrinner, Lord Mayor of Brisbane, praised the summit's role in fostering positive change globally. He acknowledged Expo City Dubai's support in hosting what he believes will be the best summit in its history.
The event was attended by prominent figures including Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi; Reem Al Hashimy; Omar Sultan Al Olama; Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti; Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid; alongside senior officials and delegation heads.
This gathering signifies a significant step towards collaborative efforts in addressing urban challenges worldwide through shared knowledge and innovative strategies.
With inputs from WAM
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