Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit 2026 Accelerates Urban Evolution with Focus on Smart Infrastructure, Mobility, and Wellbeing
Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit 2026 resumed on Wednesday at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), transitioning its focus from broad city-scale ambitions to the specific technologies, frameworks, and investment models that are shaping the future of urban development.
Under the theme “The Urban Evolution: Rethinking Cities, Redefining How We Live,” the second day of discussions emphasized the interconnected systems that will define future cities. Key areas of focus included mobility, housing, energy, and digital systems, all of which must function cohesively to create sustainable urban environments.
The summit also witnessed the signing of 12 additional Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) across various governance, delivery, and partnership tracks. Notably, the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre (ADPIC) formalized a partnership with the Institute of Applied Technology aimed at enhancing applied learning and workforce development in the sector. This collaboration will encompass capstone projects, guest lectures, internships, and the Buna Talent Development Programme, along with the integration of CAPEX curriculum. Another significant partnership between ADPIC and FIABCI, the International Real Estate Federation, aims to align Abu Dhabi’s capital infrastructure program with the global real estate community.
Mobility and Delivery for the Next Decade
The day’s discussions commenced with a panel titled “Future Mobility Networks: Last Mile Logistics and Mobility Systems for the Next Decade.” This session explored how cities are preparing for a transformative era of movement characterized by autonomous vehicles, electric fleets, air taxis, and advanced logistics systems. Moderated by Belal Deiranieh, Senior Vice President of Transportation at AtkinsRéalis, the panel included H.E. Dr. Eng. Abdulla Alghfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) for Abu Dhabi Mobility; Khadija Khalifa Mubarak Saif Al Rubaei, Acting Executive Director of Capital Projects at ADPIC; Leonard Rodrigues, Vice President of Cargo Revenue at Etihad Airways; Ali Al Hashmi, Acting Head of the Smart Autonomous Vehicle Industry (SAVI) Cluster at the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO); and Dr. Talib Alhinai, General Manager for UAE at Archer Aviation. The discussion focused on the requirements for building integrated mobility networks that enhance economic resilience while improving residents’ daily experiences.
The panel titled “Execution Excellence: Delivering at Scale, Speed, and Efficiency” examined strategies for expediting major infrastructure programs without sacrificing quality or long-term value. Key topics included the necessity of a project-first mindset, enhanced collaboration among developers, consultants, and contractors from the outset, and the role of AI and digital tools in project delivery. Moderated by Razan Salman of CNN Business Arabic, this panel featured H.E. Eisa Mubarak Almazrouei, Director General of the Infrastructure Development Directorate at the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) Abu Dhabi; Gurminder Sagoo, Chief Commercial Officer at Egis; Ahmad Ayyad, Executive Director of Operations at Modon Real Estate; Asma Aljassmi, Executive Director of Projects Control and Operations at Aldar; and Tamer Shafik, Vice President at Orascom Construction Limited.
Sustainable Systems and Human-Centered Design
The panel “From Linear to Regenerative: Circular Economy in Infrastructure and Construction” addressed the need for the sector to transition from traditional waste management to models that keep materials in productive use. Speakers emphasized the potential of construction and demolition materials as future project inventory, highlighting circular approaches such as urban mining and digital supply platforms that can minimize landfill dependency while fostering resilient infrastructure delivery. This discussion was moderated by Nour Mezher, Senior Manager of Strategy and Programmes at Frontier25, and included insights from Mariusz Mlodawski, Country Director for UAE at CEMEX; Anna Griffin, Head of Sustainability and Advocacy at Holcim; and Nadia Ibrahim, Regional Lead for Regenerative Climate and Sustainability at Surbana Jurong.
The panel “Humanising Cities: Infrastructure for Health and Wellbeing” reframed infrastructure as a cornerstone of daily wellbeing, exploring how the built environment can promote healthier lifestyles. The discussion highlighted the shift of wellness from a niche concept to a mainstream expectation, with speakers advocating for preventative health principles and nature-led communities as integral to future urban design. Moderated by Sasha Sud, Senior Director of Smart Cities at AtkinsRéalis, this panel featured H.E. Abdulla Alblooshi, Director General of the Urban Planning and Permits Centre at DMT Abu Dhabi; Dr. Mohamed Al Breiki, Executive Director of Masdar City; Javier Gonzalez, Partner and CEO at 100 Architects; Mahmoud Dandashly, Chief Business Officer at LEAD Development; and Allan Boston, COO at the Institute of Healthier Living Abu Dhabi.
The day concluded with a session on “Co-Branded Luxury Developments: The New Frontier of Urban Placemaking,” which examined how branded residences are evolving beyond hospitality-focused real estate into broader co-creation models involving fashion, automotive, wellness, and cultural brands. This panel, moderated by Ramia Farrage, Senior Presenter and Producer at Forbes Middle East, included contributions from Suwaidan Al Dhaheri, CEO of IMKAN Properties, and Michael Belton, CEO of MERED.
Recognizing the Partners Behind the Summit
The proceedings concluded with the ADIS Partner Recognition Ceremony, which honored the partners whose commitment is vital to realizing the summit’s vision. Modon returned as Headline Partner for the second consecutive year, establishing itself as a leader in urban innovation based in Abu Dhabi. Aldar Properties and Bloom Holding joined as Lead Partners, representing two of the emirate’s most influential developers.
Strategic partnerships were also formed with the Abu Dhabi Housing Authority (ADHA), Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), Reportage Group, and LEAD Development. The coalition is further bolstered by a diverse array of government and industry partners, including Abu Dhabi Mobility, the Department of Municipalities and Transport, and the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi as Government Partners; Etihad Airways as Airline Partner; Trojan Construction as Platinum Sponsor; and SaaS Properties as Networking Partner. Additional support came from Gold Sponsors Hassan Allam Holding, Hydropower, and Sobha Realty, while Silver Sponsors included Al Geemi Contracting, Bunya Enterprises, Khatib and Alami, Orascom Construction, Sichuan Transportation Construction Group, and Speed House Prefab.
The summit is set to conclude on May 14 with a dedicated program in partnership with the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC), focusing on procurement, contract management, dispute avoidance, and practical strategies for managing variations, claims, and risks in ongoing projects.
About Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre
Established in 2023, the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre (ADPIC) aims to oversee and manage capital projects designed to enhance the quality of life for all residents in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. This encompasses a wide range of initiatives, including housing, infrastructure, tourism, community facilities, and education.
ADPIC’s responsibilities include managing contracts, reviewing, approving, planning, and designing capital projects. The Centre collaborates closely with relevant entities and stakeholders to ensure quality while facilitating efficient project execution in alignment with Abu Dhabi’s strategic objectives. Throughout its operations, ADPIC is dedicated to strengthening public-private partnerships and adopting global best practices in sustainability.
Source: www.zawya.com
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Published on 2026-05-15 13:20:00 • By the Editorial Desk
