Emirate of Abu Dhabi Municipal Delegation to Attend World Cities Summit 2008 in Singapore
Department of Municipal Affairs Coordinated Initiative to Highlight Abu Dhabi’s Active Efforts in Elevating Municipal Operational Standards During its Growth
The Department of Municipal Affairs (DMA) will lead a delegation of municipal executives from the DMA along with senior members of Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Western Region Municipalities to the World Cities Summit 2008, hosted by Singapore during June 23rd to 25th.
The WCS will be the most significant senior executive municipal delegation to visit Asia for an event or conference of this nature; presenting an unprecedented opportunity to exchange experiences with international counterparts for improving quality of service for the citizens of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
World Cities Summit 2008 is a ‘top-level’ international conference series on effective public governance and sustainable development of cities. The inaugural event in 2008 will be attended by municipal and government officials from all over the world and under the theme "Liveable and Vibrant Cities", the WCS will focus on urban development and environmental sustainability issues.
The conference will feature internationally renowned academic thinkers and distinguished practitioners who will share valuable insights and practical experiences. It will address municipal issues and perspectives from professional practitioners, while showcasing global best practices.
The discussion topics will address the challenges of developing environmentally sustainable cities that are both liveable and vibrant. The WCS will cover issues related to excellence in urban infrastructure, the significance of clean environment and ways to mitigate the effects of climate change on quality of life.
Ahmed Shareef, Undersecretary, DMA said, “As the Emirate of Abu Dhabi accelerates in growth and advancement, the need to meet and liaise with professionals of other leading cities who share common issues and challenges is a priority. Public managers must continue to engage in active dialogue by participating in international forums such as the WCS to exchange ideas and learn for others.”
To maximize the learning opportunities while in Singapore, the DMA structured two parallel ‘Study Tours’ to follow the WCS, in partnership with selected Singapore governmental agencies, the Civil Service College and the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy.
The Study Tours will focus on current challenges facing the Abu Dhabi municipal system such as effective management of public-private partnerships (PPP) and the establishment and continuation of customer service excellence.
About The Department of Municipal Affairs:
The Department of Municipal Affairs (DMA) commenced operations in May 2007, following the Abu Dhabi Executive Council’s decision to integrate the Emirate’s municipal system. As a new government entity, the Department of Municipal Affairs was created to lead, coordinate and oversee three municipalities in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Western Region. The DMA has a regulatory role while the service delivery and operations are at the municipality level.
On the 5th of May 2008, the Department of Municipal Affairs along with the Abu Dhabi Municipality, Al Ain Municipality and Western Region Municipality embarked upon a new municipal services journey, with the signing of the historic Municipal Charter. www.dma.abudhabi.ae
