DMT stakeholder workshop hosts nearly 90 participants to offer feedback on future planning in Al Ain Region

The Urban Planning and Permits Centre (UPPC) at the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) brought together nearly 90 representatives from more than 40 government and private sector entities for a wide-ranging workshop to discuss urban development projects in Al Ain Region. The session focused on exploring initiatives and projects to drive future growth while meeting the evolving needs of residents, businesses, and visitors.

It was attended by His Excellency Rashed Musabbeh Al Manei, Director General of the Al Ain City Municipality, as well as a number of executives, officials, and experts. Attendees were organised into four working groups addressing the key themes of Prosperity and Authentic Identity; Healthy and Vibrant Communities; Sustainability and Resilience; and Connected Mobility.

Centred on the results of the Plan Al Ain Survey: The Future of Urban Development, which was launched by the department earlier this year, participants discussed planning objectives, initiatives, and projects needed to support the region’s ongoing transformation.

Session participants leveraged these insights to establish shared priorities, map existing projects to the survey feedback, and identify new opportunities, particularly across public amenities, recreational facilities, mobility, and transport infrastructure. The workshop also strengthened inter-agency collaboration and clarified roles and responsibilities, ensuring that community feedback will be turned into actionable policies, initiatives, and projects.

His Excellency Eng. Abdulla Mohamed Al Blooshi, Director General of the UPPC, said: “Enhancing quality of life requires a collaborative approach that brings together government, the private sector and the community. This workshop enabled us to translate the survey findings into practical solutions that will inform future projects and respond to the needs and aspirations of Al Ain’s residents.

“We thank all participating entities for their valuable contributions, as well as every community member who shared their views through the survey. Their insights will help guide Al Ain’s future growth while preserving the city’s distinctive identity, cultural character and natural environment.”

The department noted that 94 per cent of survey participants have lived in Al Ain Region for more than 10 years, with 82 per cent being UAE nationals. Expanding parks, green spaces, and public gardens emerged as the top priority, signalling a shift toward healthier, more active living. Cultural heritage also stood out as a major pillar, with 80 per cent of respondents visiting historic sites, reinforcing the need to integrate cultural preservation into the region’s evolution.