Dubai, Barcelona explore synergies in smart services

Dubai Municipality and the Barcelona Municipality in Spain have decided to enhance mutual communication and co-operation on all aspects of municipal services, particularly in the area of smart services.
The two cities held discussions on effective strategies relating to municipal functions and lessons learned from Barcelona's experiences in implementing smart services at a two-day conference on sharing best practices held in Dubai from August 19 to 20.
Dubai Municipality conveyed its capabilities and strategies to the Barcelona delegation. The two sides explored prevailing trends and best practices adopted worldwide in Smart City management.
The conference also discussed innovative approaches in facilitating access to high quality smart services for the public.
Dubai's ongoing Smart City initiative and the leadership's guiding vision as well as the policies of the Government of Dubai in promoting sustainability and prosperity were also among the topics discussed by the conference.
The Dubai Municipality delegates highlighted progress achieved in respect of the transition to smart government and Dubai's lead role regionally and globally in introducing world-class smart services and initiatives.
Engineer Hussain Nasser Lootah, director-general of the Dubai Municipality, hailed the partnership with Barcelona and termed it a valuable opportunity for the exchange of knowledge and perspectives in municipal work.
"Our partnership can lead to various initiatives and solutions that will enhance the ranking of Dubai internationally and enable Dubai realise its vision and aspirations," he added.
The joint conference will also contribute to Dubai Municipality's efforts to update its strategic plan. The Municipality is currently working on a 16-week project to update its strategic plan and align it with the Dubai 2021 Plan and the national agenda of the UAE.
- business@khaleejtimes.com