UAE Achieves Historic Presidency Of UN-Habitat General Assembly To Advance Sustainable Urban Development

The UAE has reached a significant diplomatic milestone by securing the presidency of the General Assembly of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) for the first time. This achievement, shared with Malaysia, was attained during a competitive election at the Assembly meetings in Nairobi, Kenya. It underscores the UAE's commitment to sustainable urban development and housing initiatives.

The UN-Habitat General Assembly, comprising 193 member states, is pivotal in shaping global policies to enhance urban living conditions. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, expressed pride in this accomplishment, highlighting it as a testament to the UAE's leadership in sustainable urban environments. He stated that this recognition reflects the UAE's strategic focus on housing and urban development as key elements for social stability.

Al Mazrouei emphasised that the UAE's leadership has prioritised creating an integrated housing environment that ensures well-being for all citizens and residents. The Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme exemplifies this vision by enhancing family stability and meeting government housing demands since its inception in 1999. Through this victory, the UAE aims to deepen cooperation with all member states to develop sustainable cities capable of facing future challenges.

The Minister affirmed that the UAE will use its leadership role to support Goal 11 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This goal focuses on making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. The joint presidency with Malaysia and membership in the UN-Habitat Executive Board will facilitate dialogue among member states and promote innovation in urban housing.

Eng Mohamed Al Mansouri, Director-General of Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, highlighted that this achievement reflects the UAE’s efforts in developing a sustainable urban housing system. The programme remains vital in strengthening the UAE’s global standing by offering innovative solutions that meet high standards of quality and sustainability. Al Mansouri praised the national team for their dedication over three and a half years leading to this success.

He noted that the UAE is ready to enhance cooperation with member states by sharing its experience in building diverse and innovative urban communities. This aligns with the leadership’s vision for achieving sustainable development. The presidency will bolster the UAE’s status as an influential partner in shaping future urban policies globally.

Future Urban Policies

The Minister reiterated that collaboration with member states, civil society organisations, and private sectors will continue to develop clear visions for global communities' needs. Providing adequate housing for all is seen as both an honour and an opportunity to enhance the UAE’s international record further. The country aims to embed principles of sustainable urban development worldwide.

This leadership role allows the UAE to lead efforts toward creating more inclusive living environments globally. By working closely with international partners, they aim to foster equitable and sustainable urban transformation.

The UAE's presidency of UN-Habitat marks a significant step forward in its commitment to sustainable urban development globally. This achievement highlights its dedication to improving living conditions through innovative solutions while fostering international cooperation.

With inputs from WAM