Ras al khaimah: H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Ras Al Khaimah Municipality and the Urban Economy Forum, aimed at advancing sustainable urban development.

According to Emirates News Agency, the MoU seeks to strengthen cooperation in implementing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and reinforce Ras Al Khaimah's position as a leading model in achieving Goal 11 on sustainable cities and communities. The signing took place at Saqr bin Mohammed City Palace, attended by a delegation led by Reza Pourvaziry, Chief Executive Officer of the Urban Economy Forum, and several senior municipal officials.

The agreement outlines collaboration between the parties to enhance leadership in sustainable urban development and contribute to achieving the SDGs, particularly Goal 11. It includes the preparation of Ras Al Khaimah's comprehensive urban file, development of a platform connecting public and private sectors, establishment of a general secretariat for implementation oversight, local capacity-building programmes, and initiatives to promote the emirate's identity internationally.

The MoU also details a timeline for key deliverables, such as preparing an urban assessment report, formulating Ras Al Khaimah Vision 2040 through community participation, and launching an AI-supported smart monitoring dashboard for sustainable development indicators. It provides for workshops and training for officials and community leaders, as well as awareness campaigns to strengthen Ras Al Khaimah's institutional identity both nationally and globally.

The partnership aims to position Ras Al Khaimah as a global laboratory for sustainable urban models through innovation in financing, knowledge creation, and community empowerment, supporting both the UAE Vision and the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.