Abu Dhabi, October 16th, 2018 –   H.E. Falah Al Ahbabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Urban Planning and Municipalities (DPM) signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Mr. Jean-Charles Decaux, Chairman of the Executive Board and Co-CEO of JCDecaux in the presence of the French Ambassador to the UAE, H.E. Mr. Ludovic Pouille.

The collaboration between DPM and JCDecaux, the largest outdoor advertising corporation in the world focuses on Research and Development for the delivery of urban services that contribute towards a sustainable urban environment in Abu Dhabi and enhance the quality of life of citizens and residents alike.

The MoU establishes a framework for DPM and JCDecaux to work closely together to enhance the urban landscape in Abu Dhabi applying innovative technology to design smart and sustainable street furniture that meets the needs of an ever-more connected and mobile population, while creating a strong visual identity for the city that reinforces its cultural value and heritage.

Mr. Ludovic Pouille, French Ambassador to the UAE, said: “Disruptive technologies are changing the way we live in cities. French companies in the UAE, such as JCDecaux, with their numerous innovative solutions are ready for the task. JCDecaux has been leading this transformation over the years, and has the expertise and know-how required to participate in the evolution of Abu Dhabi’s urban landscape. This agreement strengthens the strategic partnerships between France and Abu Dhabi firmly focused on the future by supporting Abu Dhabi’s ambition to become the leader in sustainable and smart living”

The signing of the MoU echoes the recent announcement by UN-Habitat of Abu Dhabi hosting the 10th edition of the World Urban Forum in February 2020, the first edition of the WUF to be held in the Arab region. WUF operates as an open-ended think tank for the future of cities, providing a platform for multi-stakeholder dialogue, and public-private collaboration.  

H.E. Falah Al Ahbabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Urban Planning and Municipalities (DPM), said: “WUF 2020 in Abu Dhabi will reframe the global conversation around urban sustainability, by integrating urban development with the technologies of the 4th Industrial Revolution. It’s all about agile urban governance that anticipates the future needs of the citizen and adapts to meet expectations and stay at their service. In that respect, our collaboration with a global leader in the provision of urban services like JCDecaux will provide Abu Dhabi with opportunities to develop pioneering solutions that meet the challenges ahead of its urban development”.

The agreement also feeds into the Emirate’s efforts to foster innovation by supporting and developing collaboration with the private sector and civil society in the scope of Public-Private-People Partnerships, in line with the Government’s vision for continuing to develop a sustainable and diversified economy.  

Jean-Charles Decaux, Chairman of the Executive Board and Co-CEO of JCDecaux, said: “We are very proud of this strategic partnership with the Abu Dhabi Department of Urban Planning and Municipalities, whose values of excellence, innovation and creativity are shared with JCDecaux. We look forward to sharing our global expertise of city provider to imagine together with DPM the urban services of tomorrow that will answer the needs of city dwellers, and further strengthen the positioning of the city as a global innovation hub encouraging entrepreneurship and a vibrant metropolis, for the greatest benefit of the city and residents”.