Regional Data & Community Development Forum Concludes With Plans For Second Edition In May 2026

The first 'Regional Data & Community Development Forum' concluded successfully, attracting over 5,748 participants. This two-day event, organised by the Department of Statistics and Community Development (DSCD), featured more than 60 panel discussions and workshops. Attendees included entrepreneurs, academics, government officials, and experts from both public and private sectors. The theme was ‘Driving Change’, with over 100 global experts leading sessions.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Chairman of DSCD, announced plans for a second forum in May 2026. This decision follows the success of the inaugural event. The aim is to enhance collaboration among researchers, decision-makers, and entrepreneurs globally. Strategic partnerships will be built to develop innovative solutions for community challenges.

Throughout the forum, discussions covered data's multifaceted role in areas like food security and privacy. Key topics included using data to improve community well-being and predict labour market trends. Panellists highlighted regional success stories where data strengthened infrastructure and improved elderly care services.

Global experts also discussed data's application in emergency responses and security. They examined how data could influence future labour markets and national infrastructure enhancement. These discussions emphasised data's importance in decision-making and improving citizen services.

Experts explored how data can empower youth and foster innovation. They discussed its potential to drive progress on developmental, economic, and societal challenges. The forum underscored data's central role in guiding decisions that benefit communities.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi praised the forum’s success in highlighting data's critical role in growth and development goals. He stated: "Regional Data & Community Development Forum provided a comprehensive platform for deliberations, highlighting global best practices across strategic sectors."

Future Prospects for Data-Driven Solutions

The event was held at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre with support from the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) and other organisations. It set the stage for launching projects that will bolster data infrastructure.

The diversity of expertise at the forum offered a forward-looking vision towards data-driven solutions defining the future. It reinforced the role of informed decision-making through comprehensive discussions on global best practices across various sectors.

With inputs from WAM