Masdar participates in 10th annual World Urban Forum

The World Urban Forum (WUF), a landmark international gathering that focuses on the future of urbanisation, recently held its 10th session in Abu Dhabi.

Organised by UN-Habitat and attended by heads of state and delegates from around the world, WUF 10 is the first session to be held in an Arab country. The week-long event, which was held from

February 8-13, explored the challenges we face in sustainable development, as well as engaged thought leaders in recommending viable solutions. 

As a pioneer in sustainable development, Masdar City’s stand at WUF 10 showcased the city’s masterplan and how it is furthering the sustainability agenda in the region. 

In addition to the Masdar stand, a number of Masdar employees contributed their insights to a range of panels and discussions throughout the week.

Amna Al Baloushi, Program Manager, Catalyst, and Shaikha Al Hosani, Senior Officer, Youth Initiatives, both participated in panels at the Youth Assembly.

Al Baloushi was nominated by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment to represent UAE youth, and participated in a session that explored youth involvement in tackling climate change. 

Al Hosani participated in a session that explored the role of data and technology to drive innovation and cultural change, where she discusses Masdar’s youth platforms and how they play a pivotal role in preparing young people to lead the sustainability agenda. 

Zainab Al Ali, Senior Manager, Outreach and Stakeholder Relations, contributed to the Women’s Roundtable, focusing on the role of women in culture and innovation. She discussed how the UAE is a leader in female empowerment and the importance of investing in youth through the WiSER Pioneers Programme, which equips young women with the skills they need to succeed.

Meanwhile, Abdulla Balalaa, Director, Real Estate Development and Design, spoke on the Urbanization and the Role of Special Economic Zones panel, in which he highlighted Masdar City’s role as a growing innovation hub for research and development, the Masdar City free zone, and the importance of supporting start-ups and SMEs.