Key Feature of 2024 International High-Level Gathering: Innovative Smart City and AI Initiative in UAE
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been at the forefront of utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to drive comprehensive development. This commitment to innovation was highlighted at a recent session focused on the potential of smart, sustainable cities and AI applications. Hosted by the New York City Mayor’s Office for International Affairs and Partners during the United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, the event brought together key figures to explore the opportunities AI presents for future cities and integrated government operations.
Dubbed “Transformational Local and Regional Governments: Artificial Intelligence As a Tool For Good,” the session featured members of the UAE delegation, international representatives, and UN program officials. His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on SDGs, was among the prominent attendees. Also present were 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.
During the session, the UAE delegation showcased their 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. Emphasizing the importance of research and development, they highlighted the potential of AI for positive societal impact.
His Excellency Abdulla Lootah spoke about the UAE’s proactive approach under visionary leadership to integrate AI solutions in the development of sustainable smart cities and communities. He stressed 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 to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This program plays a crucial role in fostering effective partnerships and driving progress towards a more sustainable future.
Expressing gratitude to the New York City Mayor’s Office for International Affairs for organizing the session, His Excellency highlighted the importance of inclusive partnerships and technological advancement in bridging the digital divide and improving lives globally. He emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to ensure that technology enhances the well-being of individuals and communities worldwide.
The United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development has been a key platform for tracking progress on the SDGs and assessing the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development since 2012. The upcoming HLPF 2024 will focus on reviewing key SDGs, including No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Climate Action, Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and Partnerships for the Goals, under the theme “Reinforcing the 2030 Agenda and eradicating poverty in times of multiple crises: the effective delivery of sustainable, resilient, and innovative solutions.”
Overall, the UAE’s forward-thinking approach to AI and sustainable development is setting the stage 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.
