Abu Dhabi announces international infrastructure summit

The Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre (ADPIC) is set to host the second edition of the Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit (ADIS 2026) from May 12 to 14 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).

This year’s summit, themed “Urban Evolution: A New Vision for Cities and Our Way of Life,” will highlight efforts to advance smarter, more sustainable urban development while improving the overall quality of life. Officials describe the event as a major platform for infrastructure and urban planning, and note that ADIS 2026 will be larger than its inaugural edition, reflecting rising international interest. Abu Dhabi continues to move forward with an ambitious infrastructure pipeline valued at over $57 billion.

The planned projects span multiple sectors, including housing, transportation, education, cultural facilities, and social infrastructure, aligning with the emirate’s long-term growth strategies. Authorities say this pipeline strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for urban development and helps translate planning into real, on-the-ground progress.

Delivering 100 projects in 2025

ADPIC’s latest report indicates that approximately 100 capital projects were completed in 2025, demonstrating steady advancement across the emirate.

Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, highlighted that the summit underscores Abu Dhabi’s pragmatic approach to building cities for the future. He emphasized that development strategies focus on people, with integrated communities, robust infrastructure, and modern transport systems at the core. He also stressed the role of international collaboration in tackling urban challenges and noted Abu Dhabi’s ongoing efforts to share expertise in planning and project execution.

Global solutions for urban growth

ADIS 2026 will gather government officials, business executives, developers, and investors from across the globe. Discussions will center on project delivery, operational efficiency, and scaling infrastructure solutions to meet future demand.

Officials noted the importance of moving beyond planning to ensure that projects generate tangible benefits for communities. The summit arrives amid strong economic growth in Abu Dhabi, where GDP reached Dh325.7 billion in Q3 2025, driven in part by the construction sector.

With projections indicating that 70 percent of the world’s population will reside in cities by 2050, the need for strategic urban planning is becoming increasingly urgent.

Maysarah Mahmoud Eid, Director General of ADPIC, emphasized that Abu Dhabi’s development success is rooted in clear planning and effective execution. She added that the summit will foster ideas and partnerships to support future city development. ADIS 2026 is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping discussions around sustainable, people-centered urban growth in line with Abu Dhabi’s long-term vision.