His Excellency Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), has led an Abu Dhabi Government delegation on a visit to Europe including Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) and Department of Community Development (DCD). The visit to the cities of Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Helsinki and Vienna, aimed to foster international cooperation and gaining insights into cutting-edge municipal practices, urban planning, and sustainable development.

During the visit, discussions were held to explore opportunities for cooperation and partnerships, and to gain an understanding of urban development plans and the latest sustainable transportation solutions through meetings with government entities and the private sector.

In Amsterdam, the Netherlands, the delegation met with city officials to learn about key plans and directions related to smart cities and sustainable mobility. In Copenhagen, Denmark, the delegation participated in a study tour trip organised by ECA, during which it received an explanation of urban planning methodologies and impact on quality of life.

The visit included a meeting between His Excellency Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa and officials from Helsinki, Finland. The delegation also visited Vienna, Austria, a city known for its leadership in urban development and the creation of sustainable transportation systems and infrastructure.

His Excellency Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, said: “Our wise leadership is committed to achieving sustainable development in all fields, making Abu Dhabi a pioneering model in smart cities. Abu Dhabi was ranked as the smartest city in the Middle East and North Africa according to the IMD Smart City Index.

"Through this visit, we aim to benefit from leading experiences and practices in infrastructure. Our department's aspirations and goals are built on clear foundations, involving innovation and the creation of sustainable smart cities, enhancing the ability of cities and communities to adapt and change, all in the pursuit of excellence in service delivery and the prosperity of future generations."