Government

Senior government leaders in Abu Dhabi have outlined the emirate's vision for LIVEX 2026, a new international exhibition focused on livability-led investment, highlighting how quality of life is becoming a key driver of urban development and long-term economic growth.

The inaugural Livability and Investment Exhibition (LIVEX) was officially launched during a press conference held at the Zayed National Museum, where senior officials presented Abu Dhabi's integrated approach to building people-centric cities that attract residents, businesses, and global investors.

Organised by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), LIVEX 2026 will take place from September 29 to October 1 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. The three-day event is expected to welcome more than 20,000 participants, including policymakers, institutional investors, urban planners, developers, innovators, and industry experts from over 50 countries.

The exhibition aims to position Abu Dhabi as a global platform where livability, infrastructure, and investment converge, reflecting a growing international trend in which long-term capital is increasingly directed towards cities offering strong quality-of-life indicators.

The launch event featured representatives from eight key Abu Dhabi government entities, who showcased the emirate's achievements across urban development, healthcare, education, culture, energy, economic growth, and public infrastructure as part of its long-term development strategy.

Delivering the keynote address, His Excellency Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, said Abu Dhabi's development has been guided by the principle that economic growth and quality of life should advance together.

He noted that decades of investment in infrastructure, public services, and community development have established Abu Dhabi as one of the most livable cities in the Middle East and Africa, while strengthening its position as an attractive destination for international investment. He added that LIVEX provides an opportunity to present this development model to a global audience.

The event also featured two high-level panel discussions examining the factors underpinning Abu Dhabi's livability agenda.

The first session, "People First: The Human Foundations of Abu Dhabi's Livability," explored the social aspects of sustainable urban development, including culture, education, community wellbeing, energy, and social inclusion. The discussion included His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism; His Excellency Dr. Abdulla Humaid Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Department of Energy; His Excellency Shamis Ali Al Dhaheri, Chairman of the Department of Community Development; and His Excellency Mohamed Taj Eddine Alqadi, Chairman of the Department of Education and Knowledge.

The second session, "By Design: The Systems and Investment Powering Abu Dhabi's Urban Future," focused on the policies, infrastructure, technology, and investment frameworks supporting sustainable urban growth. Speakers included His Excellency Badr Al-Olama, Director General at the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, and His Excellency Hammad Al Hammadi, Executive Director of TAMM's Customer Care & Happiness Sector at the Department of Government Enablement – Abu Dhabi.

According to organisers, the inaugural edition of LIVEX will provide a platform for global dialogue on urban development while fostering collaboration between governments, investors, developers, and industry leaders through exhibitions, discussions, and partnership opportunities.

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