Recently, a delegation from the Department of Municipalities and Transport concluded an official visit to South Korea, aimed at exchanging knowledge in smart mobility and sustainable urban development. Led by Mohamed Ali Al Shafar, the delegation sought to strengthen bilateral cooperation in digital infrastructure, sustainable transport, and the advancement of smart cities. This visit aligns with Abu Dhabi’s commitment to fostering international partnerships that contribute to innovative urban solutions and livable environments.
Strategic Meetings and Collaborations
During the visit, the delegation participated in a series of high-level government meetings. Minister Al Shafar met with Seo Hee-hoon, the Mayor of Seoul, and Lee Sang-kyung, the Deputy Minister of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport. These strategic discussions, attended by the UAE Ambassador to South Korea, Abdullah Saif Al Nuaimi, underscored the deepening partnership between the two capitals, particularly following the “Friendly Cities” agreement signed last year. The dialogues focused on sharing best practices in transport development, digital twin technologies, and data-driven decision-making to enhance public services.
Commitment to Smart and Sustainable Urban Planning
Minister Al Shafar expressed that “this visit reflects Abu Dhabi’s unwavering commitment to enhancing global partnerships that contribute to developing more sustainable, smart, and livable cities for the future.” He emphasized the value of such international engagements in facilitating knowledge exchange, which propels mutual advancement and places human needs and aspirations at the core of every vision and community plan.
Participation in Global Events
Adding to the trip’s significance, Minister Al Shafar delivered a keynote during the opening of the “World Smart City Expo” 2025, held in Busan from July 15 to 17. He praised Busan’s achievements in urban development while stressing the necessity of strategic planning and leveraging modern technologies to transform cities into vibrant urban spaces. In his address, he highlighted the pivotal role that global platforms play in sharing insights on the importance of smart transport systems, advanced public services, and climate-resilient infrastructure, alongside fostering community engagement in building adaptable, people-centered cities.
Workshops and Joint Discussions
The delegation also engaged in various sessions and workshops, including a “Smart Mobility and Urban Development Symposium” in collaboration with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, the Korea Spatial Information Corporation, and the Korean Institute of Human Settlement. This symposium explored urban governance and smart city technologies. Additionally, the “Abu Dhabi-Seoul Future Transport Strategies Seminar” with the Korea Infrastructure Technology Development Agency and Hyundai Motor Group addressed topics such as autonomous transportation and collaborative opportunities.
This visit not only embodies a commitment to innovation in smart mobility and sustainable urban development but also sets the stage for ongoing collaboration that promises to shape the future of urban living in both Abu Dhabi and Seoul.