Abu Dhabi's Department of Urban Planning and Municipalities (DPM) has signed a strategic agreement with JCDecaux, one of the largest outdoor advertising corporations in the world, to enhance the urban landscape in the UAE capital through use of  innovative technology.

The collaboration between DPM and JCDecaux focuses on research and development for the delivery of urban services that contribute towards a sustainable urban environment in Abu Dhabi and enhance the quality of life of citizens and residents alike, said the statement from DPM.

The MoU establishes a framework for DPM and JCDecaux to work closely together to enhance the urban landscape in Abu Dhabi applying innovative technology. The agreement involves designing of smart and sustainable street furniture that meets the needs of an ever-more connected and mobile population, while creating a strong visual identity for the city that reinforces its cultural value and heritage, remarked Falah Al Ahbabi, the chairman of DPM after signing the deal with Jean-Charles Decaux, the chairman of the executive board and co-CEO of JCDecaux in the presence of French Ambassador to the UAE, Ludovic Pouille.

The signing of the MoU echoes the recent announcement by UN-Habitat of Abu Dhabi hosting the 10th edition of the World Urban Forum in February 2020, the first edition of the WUF to be held in the Arab region.

WUF operates as an open-ended think tank for the future of cities, providing a platform for multi-stakeholder dialogue, and public-private collaboration.

Pouille pointed out that disruptive technologies were changing the way of life in cities and French companies in the UAE, such as JCDecaux, with their numerous innovative solutions were ready for the task.

"JCDecaux has been leading this transformation over the years, and has the expertise and know-how required to participate in the evolution of Abu Dhabi’s urban landscape. This agreement strengthens the strategic partnerships between France and Abu Dhabi firmly focused on the future by supporting Abu Dhabi’s ambition to become the leader in sustainable and smart living," he stated.

Decaux said the company was proud of its strategic partnership with Abu Dhabi DPM, whose values of excellence, innovation and creativity are shared with the French group.

"We look forward to sharing our global expertise of city provider to imagine together with DPM the urban services of tomorrow that will answer the needs of city dwellers, and further strengthen the positioning of the city as a global innovation hub encouraging entrepreneurship and a vibrant metropolis, for the greatest benefit of the city and residents," he added.

On the WUF 2020 show, Al Ahbabi said this event would reframe the global conversation around urban sustainability, by integrating urban development with the technologies of the 4th Industrial Revolution.

"It’s all about agile urban governance that anticipates the future needs of the citizen and adapts to meet expectations and stay at their service. In that respect, our collaboration with a global leader in the provision of urban services like JCDecaux will provide Abu Dhabi with opportunities to develop pioneering solutions that meet the challenges ahead of its urban development," he added.-TradeArabia News Service