Abu Dhabi, 27 May, 2017:  A senior representative from the United Nations (UN) met with Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) this week to discuss the global issue of rapid urbanisation and its impact on communities, cities, economies, climate change and policies.

H.E. Falah Al Ahbabi, Director General of the UPC, met with Dr. Joan Clos, UN Under-Secretary-General and UN-Habitat Executive Director, to explore possible solutions for challenges faced by urban areas around the world. 

They discussed the UPC’s best practice on strategies for sustainable urbanisation, such as its successful implementation of the Estidama Pearl Rating System – a mandatory requirement for all new Abu Dhabi developments – to create complete sustainable communities and enhance quality of life.

The Estidama initiative is based on four pillars of sustainability: environmental, economic, social and cultural. These have been woven into the fabric of the UPC’s framework and master plans to help preserve and enrich Abu Dhabi’s physical and cultural identity. 

This is one of several initiatives in Abu Dhabi, that has attracted international recognition for implementing urban sustainability in innovative ways.

H.E Falah Al Ahbabi, said: “We were delighted to meet with Dr. Joan Clos to discuss concrete solutions to urban development issues facing cities around the world.

“It is important for us to increase international awareness of the UPC’s willingness to help achieve a global sustainable community.

“We are proud to have contributed to many notable milestones, in accordance with the Abu Dhabi Plan. These achievements follow in the footsteps of the late Sheikh Zayed, whose vision for a sustainable future lives on today in the UPC’s policies and practices.

“The UPC will continue its efforts in promoting Abu Dhabi as a global centre for cultural exchange and sustainable innovation.”

Another key area of discussion was the UPC’s proposed theme of 'sustainable resources for future cities”, which explores the view that human capital, education, mobility, ideas and information are vital for sustainable urban development.

The discussion also covered the Emirate’s approach to housing provision for UAE Nationals, which is closely aligned with the New Urban Agenda adopted at the United Nations Conference on Housing and Sustainable Urban Development in Quito in 2016.

The meeting has strengthened Abu Dhabi’s position as a key player in the Middle East that helps encourage, promote and implement sustainable development goals in the region.