At Expo City Dubai, Mayors Gather for Asia Pacific Cities Summit 2025

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Expo City Dubai came alive on Sunday as the Asia Pacific Cities Summit and Mayors’ Forum 2025 convened at the striking Al Wasl Plaza. The gathering welcomed more than 150 mayors and civic leaders representing 300 cities — the first time in 29 years the summit has been held in the Middle East.

The event underscored Dubai’s expanding role as a centre for innovation and sustainable urban planning. The summit’s opening was led by Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and CEO of Expo City Dubai Authority; His Excellency Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary General of The Executive Council of Dubai; and The Lord Mayor of Brisbane, Councillor Adrian Schrinner.

Addressing attendees, H.E. Abdulla Al Basti spoke of Dubai’s mission to deepen international ties and spur forward-looking citymaking: “Dubai is both a meeting place and an innovation hub. We are honoured to host a summit that advances sustainable urban development and encourages cities to improve liveability, fairness and economic opportunity for their communities.”

The summit aims to foster cooperative approaches among city leaders on pressing challenges — ranging from sustainable development and smart infrastructure to urban resilience and economic renewal. The opening night featured a vivid light projection on the Al Wasl Dome and a stirring performance by the Firdaus Orchestra, capturing Dubai’s blend of cultural richness and technological creativity.

Speakers and delegates stressed that shared learning and strong partnerships are essential to raising quality of life for residents. Programming continues through October 29 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, with keynote addresses, hands-on workshops and networking sessions designed to help cities become greener, smarter and more inclusive.

As Expo City Dubai grows into a lasting emblem of sustainability and progress, the summit reinforced its role as a place where ideas, inspiration and practical solutions converge to shape better urban futures for people everywhere.