Highlight of 2024 UN High-Level Forum: UAE’s Smart City and AI Initiative
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been making waves in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) with its innovative use of technology to drive comprehensive development. This was a major focus of a recent session on the potential of smart, sustainable cities and AI applications, hosted by the New York City Mayor’s Office for International Affairs and Partners. The event took place on the sidelines of the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development.
Dubbed “Transformational Local and Regional Governments: Artificial Intelligence As a Tool For Good,” the session brought together members of the UAE delegation, international representatives, and UN program officials to explore sustainability opportunities in future cities and the potential use of AI in integrated government operations at both city and regional levels. Key figures in attendance included His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on SDGs; Michal Mlynar, Acting Executive Director of UN-Habitat; Her Excellency Amna Binzaal Almheiri, Consul General of the UAE in New York; and Edward Mermelstein, New York City’s Commissioner for International Affairs.
The UAE delegation highlighted the government’s dedication to expanding AI usage and fostering global partnerships to drive government and development initiatives. Their strategic goal is to achieve sustainable economic, social, and knowledge growth through innovation and international collaboration. They stressed the importance of research and development in harnessing the potential of AI for positive societal impact.
His Excellency Abdulla Lootah spoke about the proactive approach taken by the UAE under visionary leadership to integrate AI solutions in the development of sustainable smart cities and communities. He emphasized a human-centric design approach that prioritizes community needs and well-being at every stage of development and service delivery. By leveraging innovative technologies, the UAE aims to drive positive transformations and ensure governance that enhances quality of life while minimizing negative impacts.
The UAE delegation also discussed strategic initiatives like the Government Experience Exchange Programme, which aims to share best practices in governmental operations with global partners to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This initiative plays a crucial role in fostering effective partnerships and driving progress towards a more sustainable future.
His Excellency expressed gratitude to the New York City Mayor’s Office for International Affairs for organizing the session, emphasizing the importance of inclusive partnerships and technological advancement in bridging the digital divide and improving lives globally. He underlined the need for collaborative efforts to ensure that technology enhances the well-being of individuals and communities worldwide.
Since its inception in 2012, the HLPF has been a vital platform for the UN to track progress on the SDGs and assess the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The upcoming HLPF 2024, with the theme “Reinforcing the 2030 Agenda and eradicating poverty in times of multiple crises: the effective delivery of sustainable, resilient, and innovative solutions,” will focus on in-depth reviews of several key SDGs, including No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Climate Action, Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and Partnerships for the Goals.
Overall, the UAE’s forward-thinking approach to AI and sustainable development is paving the way for positive change in smart cities and communities globally. By leveraging technology and fostering international partnerships, the UAE is playing a crucial role in advancing the SDGs and creating a more sustainable future for all.
