Forbes Middle East has concluded the second edition of its Building the Future Summit in Abu Dhabi, bringing together top government officials, investors, and business leaders to discuss the next wave of urban development. The two-day event, held on June 23 and 24, focused on the critical intersection of infrastructure, energy, smart cities, and sustainable investment in the UAE and the wider region.
Quick Facts
- 60 speakers, including 11 senior UAE officials.
- Nearly 30 specialized sessions over two days.
- Focus on infrastructure, energy, and smart cities.
UAE Government Outlines Vision for Resilient Infrastructure
Held under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, the summit provided a platform for key government figures to share strategic insights. Discussions emphasized the UAE’s proactive approach to balancing economic growth with sustainability.
H.E. Eng. Sharif Salim Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at the Ministry, outlined the nation’s energy strategy in his keynote. “As global energy demand continues to rise and countries seek to balance emissions reduction, energy security, and economic competitiveness, the UAE has adopted a balanced and pragmatic approach. We continue to invest in conventional energy resources while accelerating the development of renewable energy, nuclear energy, hydrogen, energy efficiency, advanced storage solutions, and next-generation infrastructure.”
Echoing the focus on future-readiness, H.E. Eng Mohammed Al Mansoori, Undersecretary for Infrastructure and Transport Affairs, stressed the importance of adaptability. “When we talk about the cities of the future, we are not merely referring to roads, bridges, and smart buildings. We are talking about cities’ ability to continue operating, adapt quickly, and respond effectively to evolving challenges and disruptions. In the UAE, resilience and preparedness have become fundamental principles guiding infrastructure development, urban planning, and service delivery.”
Harnessing Technology for Sustainable Communities
The summit underscored that technology is a tool, not the end goal, for building better cities. Khuloud Al Omian, CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Forbes Middle East, highlighted this in her opening remarks. “Building the future does not depend on technology alone — it depends on our ability to harness it to build more resilient economies, more sustainable cities, and more prosperous communities.”
Representing the private sector’s commitment, Ali Al Gebely, Founder and Chairman of ONE Development and ONE Holding, spoke on the collective responsibility of developers and investors. “The UAE has shown the world that the future belongs to countries that plan with clarity, act with speed, and build with purpose. And as developers, investors, designers, and decision-makers, we have a responsibility to contribute to that momentum. Because building the future is not a slogan. It is a commitment.”
From AI to Space Exploration: A Deep Dive into Future Development
Panel discussions covered a wide spectrum of topics shaping urban environments. Experts explored the role of public-private partnerships in advancing major infrastructure projects, strategies for sustainable urban development, and the future of real estate investment.
The agenda also included sessions on advanced manufacturing, smart mobility, cybersecurity, and the application of artificial intelligence and data in urban planning. The summit recognized key industry players through the Construction Leaders Recognition Awards and the Most Impactful Real Estate Leaders 2026 Awards, celebrating contributions to innovation and development across the region.
About Forbes Middle East
Forbes Middle East is published under license from the global Forbes brand as a dedicated edition for the Arab world, with a mission to advance business journalism across the region. Through its digital platforms and social media channels, Forbes Middle East delivers breaking news and in-depth coverage on wealth, business, investment, technology, entrepreneurship, leadership, and luxury lifestyle. Its content reaches business leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, executives, and a broad audience of ambitious professionals and changemakers.
Source: Zawya
