Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, Expo City Dubai opened its doors on Sunday to city leaders from across the world for the Asia Pacific Cities Summit and Mayors’ Forum.

Held at Al Wasl Plaza, the summit marks the first time the event has convened in the region during its 29-year history. The opening ceremony featured remarks from Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and Chief Executive Officer of the Expo City Dubai Authority; Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary General of The Executive Council of Dubai; and Adrian Schrinner, Lord Mayor of Brisbane.

Al Basti described Dubai as “a platform for global connection and a hub for innovation,” emphasizing Expo City’s role as a model for sustainable urban development. He said the summit offers city leaders a chance to exchange expertise and strengthen cooperation to enhance the livability and economic resilience of urban centers worldwide.

Speakers throughout the event underscored collaboration and shared learning as essential to addressing the challenges facing cities. Mayors and representatives from more than 300 cities, including over 150 mayors, gathered with the shared aim of improving the quality of life for residents through actionable partnerships and practical knowledge exchange.

The opening featured a light projection on the Al Wasl dome and a performance by the Firdaus Orchestra. The three-day event, organized by the Brisbane City Council and delivered by Expo City Dubai, runs from October 27 to 29 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.